The Botswana Financial Institutions and Allied Workers Union (BOFIAWU) plans to petition Motswedi SACCOS this month over allegations of unfair labour practices, workplace intimidation and abuse of authority, escalating a dispute that the union says has damaged employee morale and industrial relations.
The move follows what BOFIAWU described as repeated attempts to engage the institution over complaints from workers. Employees have alleged bullying, harassment and intimidation within the organisation, while some union members claim they are being targeted because of their affiliation with organised labour.
BOFIAWU said workers have a constitutional and legal right to join a trade union without fear of victimisation or discrimination.
The union also raised concerns about allegations that confidential information is being leaked by members of management before responsibility is shifted to employees, conduct it said could undermine trust and corporate governance if substantiated.
“A petition is not an act of confrontation, it is a call for accountability and constructive engagement,” Tlhoro said. “As a union, we cannot remain silent when workers raise consistent concerns about intimidation, procedural unfairness and the erosion of workplace dignity.”
Additional concerns relate to reports that some employees have been suspended without comprehensive investigations or adherence to procedural fairness.
BOFIAWU Chairperson Mills Tlhoro said the petition is intended to press for accountability and engagement rather than confrontation.
“A petition is not an act of confrontation, it is a call for accountability and constructive engagement,” Tlhoro said. “As a union, we cannot remain silent when workers raise consistent concerns about intimidation, procedural unfairness and the erosion of workplace dignity.”
He said employees should be able to work in an environment where fairness, respect and justice are upheld, adding that the issues raised require urgent attention before they further affect productivity and workplace relations.
The union said it remains committed to resolving disputes through dialogue and in accordance with Botswana’s labour laws and principles of natural justice. It urged Motswedi SACCOS to address the concerns raised by employees and restore confidence within the institution.
BOFIAWU also welcomed support from the Botswana Federation of Trade Unions and affiliated unions, saying the backing reflects the labour movement’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting fair working conditions.
“Other unions are set to walk with us on this journey to show the seriousness of our campaign as the union and how accountable we are to our members. We are hoping to have masses during the petition in August,” Tlhoro said.
