Trade unions Communication Workers Union (CWU) and Solidarity have welcomed the appointment of Reuben September as Telkom`s CEO.
September`s appointment was announced yesterday, and follows his stint as acting CEO since April, when former CEO Papi Molotsane unexpectedly resigned.
September`s appointment also came unexpectedly, especially as it followed allegations by the Sunday Times that president Thabo Mbeki had rejected Cabinet`s proposal that September be appointed as permanent CEO.
"We strongly believe his appointment will strengthen the company, and the giant ship, that is Telkom SA, will have no reason to remain in the dock, while other operators are sailing smoothly," says CWU spokesman Mfanafuthi Sithebe.
Solidarity spokesman Jaco Kleynhans notes that September`s Telkom experience spans more than 30 years. "We believe this will be the ingredient to carry the group to new heights."
Solidarity has established a good relationship with September during the past few months, he notes. "The trade union looks forward to a good working relationship with Telkom and September."
Consumer concerns
The Telecommunications Action Group is unimpressed by the appointment. The advocacy organisation said in a statement that September "is very much a part of the existing Telkom regime that has consistently used its monopoly status to profit in excess from lack of consumer choice".
The appointment suggests Telkom is not truly committed to any form of change, it said.
While MyADSL founder Rudolph Muller sees September as a logical choice as Telkom`s CEO, due to his skill and experience, he also expresses concerns that "it will be business as usual at Telkom".
"Telkom remains one of the most disliked companies in SA, and to change this perception and gain the trust of consumers will require something special from the telecoms giant.
"To turn the company around, very strong leadership and a fresh approach are needed. While Reuben is saying the right things, it remains to be seen whether he has the strength and willingness to put his money where his mouth is."
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