Continuing its two-step routine around the question of the factual accuracy of the controversial Telkom whistle-blowing dossier, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) now maintains it “does not matter” whether it stands by the allegations in the document.
Despite the belligerent nature of the widely-distributed CWU dossier, which surfaced in December and alleges gross corruption at the telecoms giant, the union can still not say whether it actually stands by the contents of the document.
The report zeroes in on allegations of misconduct and gross negligence at Telkom and its failed Nigerian subsidiary Multi-Links. Specific allegations were also made against various members of Telkom's executive body, including Telkom SA MD Pinky Moholi and former Telkom CEO Reuben September.
The CWU has claimed ownership of the dossiers, but has to date not committed to championing the allegations.
When the dossiers surfaced late last year, the union acknowledged the dossier is a CWU report, but it said it was not yet willing to stand by the allegations contained in it.
When quizzed on the matter yesterday, CWU secretary and spokesperson Gallant Roberts said it did not matter whether the union stood by the allegations.
He explained that, in the meantime, the CWU would conduct its own investigations into the allegations, as well as assist Telkom in its investigation.
When questioned why the report was leaked to the media prematurely, he explained it was in the public's best interest to be made aware of the allegations.
Telkom has slammed the dossier as factually incorrect, but conceded it was aware of many of the issues raised in the document and that criminal investigations were already under way. The company would not provide any further detail regarding the investigations, including what or who is being investigated, or which law enforcement agency is involved in the probe.
Despite the union's indecision on the validity of the allegations, it has revealed its desired outcomes.
Roberts explained that if any of the allegations prove to be true, the union will act swiftly to call for the immediate suspension or dismissal of the guilty individual. “We will call for them to be sent to the dustbin,” he stated.
Sideline fight
Meanwhile, the union is also at war with Telkom for what it claims is the unfair suspension of its shop steward, Thabang Mothelo.
Telkom suspended Mothelo on 2 December, after the leaked dossier was traced to him.
In an internal letter, authored by Telkom's chief of corporate governance Ouma Rasethaba, Telkom justified its position, claiming Mothelo had violated the company's agreed-to structures and protocols for communication between the company and the union.
Telkom also stated in the letter that Mothelo was in violation of Telkom's media policy.
Roberts says the union will challenge the suspension. He states that the union would stand by its member, arguing that Mothelo cannot be penalised for exposing alleged corruption. “This is highly unfair and we condemn Telkom's actions.”
Telkom would not comment further on the statements made by the CWU. "The matter is confidential between Telkom and its employee and, therefore, the company is not in a position to make these details public."
However, the company's statement highlights that Telkom is acting in its capacity as Mothelo's employee and not against Mothelo's affiliation to CWU. As such, the operator will hold Mothelo accountable to its own internal policies and procedures.
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