Basic rules of business
Companies have shareholders who choose to share the profits (or losses) of the business. These shareholders also have a voice in how the company is run. If I worked for a company and was asked (or in this case told) to change from an agreed fixed salary to a "performance related remuneration package" (or dividend as it is more properly known), then I would be looking for a share in the company.
Aside from the fact that this is a supremely arrogant way to treat people, I reiterate my earlier post that unless MK (and many other businesses like them) change their business model, they are heading for an inevitable end.