SAMWU opposes irregular reinstatement of senior manager
The South African Municipal Workers Union in Limpopo is disappointed by the manner in which the Municipal Council of Mokgalakwena Municipality has dealt with the matter relating to the disciplinary process of Mr. Henry Thobejane and the sanctions thereof. It is our view as a labour movement that the outcomes of disciplinary processes should be respected without looking at the position of an individual (see Sowetan report).
Our members have been expelled from this Municipality and Council has shown no interest in engaging with us to find alternative solutions to our affected members but on this matter they find it convenient to re-instate a senior manager, who was found guilty on 26 counts, including financial mismanagement and theft. This can only mean that someone is abusing political power at the expense of due processes.
If the Council finds it proper to ignore the outcome of a disciplinary process then such should be applicable to all members of staff. We demand reconsideration of all cases wherein our members were expelled. The above is clear demonstration that this Council is lacking the capacity required to understand labour related processes, we are calling on the Municiplaity to do the right thing.
It will come as a surprise should we find that there was political interference from an ANC structure, which directed this Council to re- instate the Manager in question.
Councillors must always be informed by principles and not factions when making a decision. We are affording this Council 14 days in which to do the right thing, which is to effect the outcomes of the disciplinary process - failing which - we will mobilize our members and community members, to ensure that such outcomes are enforced.
Sadly, there is a tendency in this region which allows business interests to supersede issues of serve delivery.
Statement issued by SAMWU Limpopo Provincial Secretary Simon Mathe, February 8 2012
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