VODACOM'S ATTACKS AGAINST WORKERS REACH NEW LOW

Please take action before Vodacom causes further damage to workers.

On August 7th, 2007, 13 workers attempting to resume their duties after more than a month fo striking were called into offices and suspended from work. All 13 workers were given the same form letter. Workers were never given a chance to defend themselves or even find out what they were accused of or why. Workers who attempted to clarify were told that they company does not know, that they are still investigating.

The assault on workers seems carefully orchestrated to show other workers a vicious response to union activity. Several of those suspended have been active union leaders. One is pregnant, another one is recovering from surgery. Eight had been issued arrest warrants on orders from Vodacom for alleged breaches of picketing rules, at least five of whom have already spent time locked in jail for "crimes" like crossing imaginary lines. In an ironic twist, several of the employees have received awards for their contributions to the company.

To underline the discriminatory nature of these suspensions, none of the company managers who violated picketing rules or acted against court orders are being investigated. The company has refused to meet with the union, in direct contravention of the agreement signed a few days ago.

Please take time to write to Vodacom CEO, Alan Knott-Craig, to express that you are disturbed that the persecution of workers continues in Vodacom despite the agreement with the union. Strikers should in fact be commended as this was the most peaceful and orderly strike in the recent history of South Africa. Workers have a right to due process as per the company's own policy and potential misconduct should be addressed in a non-discriminatory manner.

Follow the link on the column on the right side of the blog and write your own letter!