Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-02-19 01:21:00
The case between Daniel Fallah Flomo and RLJ Kendeja Beach Resort and Villas Hotel has been the center of attention at the Paynesville Magisterial Court with both parties presenting their final arguments. Flomo, a former employee of the hotel, alleged that he was illegally dismissed and subjected to inhumane treatment by the management, specifically by the operational manager, Roberta Torkornoo. His lawsuit accuses Torkornoo of simple assault and disorderly conduct, claiming that she physically assaulted him, causing him severe pain.
Flomo’s complaint stems from his vocal opposition to bad labor practices and malpractices by the management, which ultimately led to his alleged assault and dismissal by Torkornoo. He is one of over 300 workers who were reportedly illegally made redundant between 2022 and 2023 by the hotel management. In the Writ of Summon, Flomo detailed the incident, alleging that Torkornoo intentionally and illegally hit him in the chest, resulting in severe pain and the need for medical examinations.
During the trial at the Paynesville Magisterial Court, several witnesses, including Martha M. Thompson, head of the hotel workers union, Maria Meekie, a Liberian staffer, and Reuben Twumasi, a Ghanaian, testified about the exchange of words between Flomo and Torkornoo. While there was confirmation of the exchange of words, there was no solid evidence of physical assault. Thompson mentioned that Torkornoo had pointed her finger at Flomo, but the matter was resolved, and Flomo returned to work.
Torkornoo also admitted to the heated exchange but denied physically assaulting Flomo. She attributed Flomo’s dismissal to his constant arguing and inappropriate behavior, which violated the hotel’s policies. The court raised questions related to the definitions of simple assault and offensive touching according to the penal law of Liberia, which were crucial to inform its ruling in the case.
The case has raised important legal and ethical considerations, including the treatment of employees in the workplace, labor practices, and the responsibilities of both employees and employers. The Paynesville Magisterial Court’s ruling will have significant implications for labor relations and employee rights in Liberia, and could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
Regardless of the outcome, the case highlights the need for fair and just treatment of employees, as well as the importance of understanding and upholding labor laws and regulations. It serves as a reminder for employers to create and maintain a safe and respectful work environment for their employees, as well as to uphold the rights and dignity of their workforce.
The final arguments have set the stage for a crucial decision from the court, one that will have far-reaching implications for the rights and protections of employees in Liberia, and possibly beyond. As the court deliberates on the case, the spotlight remains on the vital issues of workplace behavior, employee rights, and the ethical responsibilities of employers in ensuring a dignified and respectful workplace for all.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
