BFTU LAMBASTS LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Botswana Federation of Trade Unions (BFTU) has criticised the government’s recruitment and treatment of the coronavirus (C OVID -19) Scorpions. In a press statement, the union says it was appalled by the report from the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development stating that the COVID-19 contracts were erroneous and must be the same as those for the public works programme (Ipelegeng) employees. “This position by government undermines the rules and regulations of employment in the public service dealing with the engagement of officers on temporary basis. The COVID-19 Scorpions positions are frontline posts that deserve to be given proper recognition and favourable terms of employment. These are young people with post-secondary certificate, who have been properly employed in accordance with Directive No.4 of 2005, which deals with direct appointment of employees and their remuneration commensurate with their qualifications and expertise. We cannot allow and do not condone exploitation of people with required knowledge when there are proper rules to be followed. The minister cannot make overnight decisions that bring confusion when there is none. The necessity of the COVID-19 Scorpions at this critical time must not be overshadowed by the ministry’s confusion. Directive 4 of 2005 was used to employ the COVID-19 Scorpions therefore we urge the ministry to retract the statements and position of appointing the potential incumbents according to the Ipelegeng contracts.