Defending guilty workers may erode union’s credibility

YOUR Monday edition “Nehawu vows to fight axing of members” refers:

It is always good to hear of unions stepping in to help their members, however, it is also appropriate for union officials and organisers to look at each specific case to make a decision as to whether there are merits in the individuals they are going to defend.

In a case of this nature where there was an incitement to public violence and the causing of malicious damage to property, then I would strongly suggest that the union officials try their utmost to mediate a solution to this dispute.

It undermines the integrity of a union to try to force their members back into the workplace when they have organised and led a forceful disruption of a graduation ceremony.

Union members should have faith in their union to do the right thing and not to merely defend guilty parties in all circumstances. It should be understood that unions, like others involved in legal disputes, should have integrity and should respect the system.

If it becomes clear that the individual is guilty then it is appropriate to rather negotiate a peaceful exit which would suit both their members and the management.