Unions seek interdict against govt decision

Represented by lawyers Tshiamo Rantao and Mboki Chilisa, the five trade unions that make up BOFEPUSU accused government of acting unilaterally when making the decision to withdraw assistance to the trade unions. The lawyers argued that Festina Bakwena, Director of Public Service Management failed to give the trade unions an opportunity to be heard before a final decision was taken.

The lawyers contend that the decision to withdraw the assistance by government can only be taken through collective bargaining that is envisaged in the International Labour Organisation Convention, which Botswana is a signatory to.