In recent weeks, two rival factions, both asserting authority over the Timber Workers Union, have laid claim to these funds, which the government has set aside to settle arrears for services rendered in the timber sector. Authorities have made it clear that no lump-sum payment will be made to any union or leadership structure. On Friday, a small group of workers gathered at the MFDP demanding immediate payment. He emphasized that all payments will be made only to verified individual timber workers, adding that an MFDP team will conduct a verification exercise to ensure legitimacy. A faction of the union contested the law firm’s authority to collect the funds, prompting the MFDP to suspend the payment.