The Association of Lotto Marketing Companies together with the staff of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) are asking the management of the Authority to find an amicable solution to its stand-off with some private lotto operations.
In a joint statement, the two unions said they are very much concerned about the state of affairs at the NLA.
Currently, the NLA is in gridlock with the private lotto operators as a result of its inability to pay winning prizes, commissions, salaries and emoluments; a situation that is affecting the businesses of these operators.
The association and staff union say it is imperative for the NLA to make reforms that will streamline portions of its operations in order for the grievances to be resolved.
They said they are ever ready to support such steps adding that “in so doing, we would like to urge the management of the NLA to take steps to harmonize the operations of the private companies”.
However, they urged both the operators and the NLA to work in accordance with the law and not to be recalcitrant and confrontational by engaging in politics and media wars to seek the necessary remedies.
“Refrain from using politics and the media as battlegrounds which have the tendency to not only inflame passions but also muddy the waters. Rather, all parties should resort to dialogue in resolving contentions if any”, the statement added.
Ahead of the appointment of a board and management of the NLA, staff and marketers are making these proposals as follows:
1. The NLA should introduce a clear-cut regulatory framework in accordance with National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722) and Lottery Regulation, 2008 (L.I 1948).
2. Review the licensing fees by introducing a realistic rate.
3. In addition to charging fees, revenue sharing be instituted to ensure fairness and equity.
4. Regular flow of communication be adopted to avoid suspicion, rumours and speculations.
5. Agents and writers of the private lotto companies are levied at the end of every month to generate more income for the NLA. In this case, proper records must be kept to ensure accountability.
6. No company should have the right to conduct any draws without NLA’s authorization.