North West health officials placed on suspension

Thabo Lekalakala.

Their precautionary suspension is in terms of Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC) Resolution of 2003 on disciplinary code and procedures for the public service. “The basis for the precautionary suspension is allegations that the four employees were involved in the disruption of services, incitement of staff, misuse of fire extinguishers and intimidation of fellow employees. Their suspension is with immediate effect,” said the department.

The suspension of the four employees follows a week of unrest at the provincial offices in Mahikeng, where employees were complaining about the return of head of department, Dr Thabo Lekalakala.

Earlier this month, the department noted the arbitration court’s decision for Lekalakala, who was placed on suspension in April, to be reinstated.

“Lekalakala has since been suspended and the department has also briefed employees about progress on these matters. The department calls for stability and all staff members to return to their work stations,” said Lekgethwane

Staff also expressed unhappiness over performance bonuses and Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD), among others.