COSATU Free State was shocked by the attempted rape of a student doctor whilst on duty at Pelonomi Hospital. We are encouraged by her resoluteness to resist the attack and to defend herself.
We have learned that the perpetrator would be appearing in court for a formal bail application on 12 July 2019, and have resolved to attend the court case and make our voice known that the safety of workers in workplaces will not be compromised.
We shall be demanding that the Court denies the alleged perpetrator any bail, as we do not believe that he is fit to be allowed back into society prior to rehabilitation.
The scourge of rape is a societal matter but the obvious lax in security at the Pelonomi hospital is a big factor here. This hospital has been under construction now for more than ten years and with many contractors not completing their work in the process compromising the safety of our members and the community.
We have engaged the Department of Health to improve security in health facilities. Our members continue to be exposed to untold dangers in the various workplaces due to possible attacks by the community they serve.
We invite all workers and community members to join us to demand better working conditions in public health facilities. Our picket will take place on the 12th of July 2019 between 12H00 and 13H30.
We reject all forms of workplace violence!
Issued by COSATU Free State
Enquiries Provincial Secretary Monyatso oa Mahlatsi @ 010 219 1373 or 076 115 9923