Minister locks out workers

They were late for work

LIMPOPO MEC for public works Thabitha Mohlala yesterday displayed a zero-tolerance attitude when she locked employees out of the department building.

Almost the entire staff the department of public works could not work after Mohlala took a unilateral decision and instructed security guards to lock out the workers for reporting late for work. Some arrived a minute after the MEC.

This was said to be a concerted effort to instil discipline in the department.

Government employees are reportedly notorious for reporting for work late and leaving early.

When Sowetan arrived at about 10am the workers were chanting freedom songs and dancing outside the building.

They accused Mohlala of venting her anger on them for because she is not featured in any of the lists - they are currently in circulation - of the preferred candidates in the leadership of the ANC in the province.

The ANC will hold its conference at the University of Limpopo from December 17 to December 20.

Approached for comment yesterday Mohlala said her decision had nothing to do with the ANC conference. She said her tough stance was "purely to ensure discipline in the department".

"If the workers believe my decision has anything to do with the ANC conference then so be it," she said before referring Sowetan to her spokeswoman, Nthabiseng Boya, for further clarity.

Boya said the action by the Mohlala was a reminder that it was important to report for work on time, especially public servants.