Staff reporter
Bloemfontein – The Department of Health in Free State Province is accused of protecting expelled union leaders.
This follows a story we published about a DENOSA leader who was accused of sexual harassment at Bongani Regional Hospital in Welkom, and consequently, dismissed.
His matter as far as those close to him are concerned, is on appeal meaning the MEC as the appeal authority has a responsibility to finalize it either by setting aside the disciplinary committee finding or ratifying it.
The 30 days prescribed for such a decision have lapsed with more and more claims that he is not the only one and again, politics are at play as a union is controlling the department.
According to three independent sources, expulsion verdicts of ordinary Health staff are signed off as fast as possible while union leaders expelled are not touched and they draw salaries monthly.
“Appeal assessors have finalized appeals. All that is left is for her to sign. She is signing the appeal outcomes for those officials who are not politically connected and shields her comrades.”
Another source says this might be deliberate.
“If the 30 days lapses and then the expulsion is confirmed, the expelled staff can approach the bargaining council and it will rule in their favor because they can easily claim prejudice.
This is exactly what’s being done.”
A labour lawyer who spoke on condition of anonymity said this will have undesirable consequences for the MEC.
“Should the delay continue then it means the MEC is sleeping on the job and if the matter is taken to the Public Protector and courts, she will be declared delinquent.”
Mondli Mvamvi, spokesperson for the Department of Health did not respond to our questions and the department has taken the decision not to respond to our inquiries.
When we wrote articles about the great work the hospitals were doing, the same spokesperson responded to our questions.
With the year ending, we will touch base with AGSA, HAWKS, Public Protector and Public Service Commission about the state of affairs in Free State Government.
If you have news or tips please email us at news@stepupsanews.co.za or WhatsApp 0685000246
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