The Public Services Association (PSA) has hailed a recent High Court judgment as a landmark win for accountability and workers’ rights.
Justice Nadia Kangaloo ruled against the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) in a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) case brought forward by stalwart employee Lancelot Lezama.
The judgment, handed down last week, underscores the integrity and resilience of workers in the face of alleged political interference and high-level corruption.
The case stemmed from an investigation into allegations made by Public Utilities Minister Marvin Gonzales against WASA employee Cecil Matthews. Gonzales accused Matthews of permitting a non-WASA individual to drive a company vehicle, a claim that Lezama, after an investigation, found to be baseless.
Despite the findings, senior WASA officials, including then-CEO Dr Lennox Sealy, allegedly pressured Lezama to alter his report to support Gonzales’ claims.
Lezama resisted these attempts, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to fairness and transparency. The PSA lauded his integrity, calling his refusal to succumb to pressure a “victory for workers’ rights and justice.”
“This judgment reveals the alarming level of corruption and political interference at WASA,” the PSA stated. “It is reprehensible that senior officials would attempt to manipulate an investigation to shield a minister and undermine an innocent worker.”
Justice Kangaloo’s ruling highlighted WASA’s failure to disclose critical documents related to the investigation under the FOIA. The PSA criticised this as an attempt to hide misconduct and demanded immediate action from WASA’s new CEO, Keithroy Halliday, who earns over $100,000 monthly.
“Halliday must prove his worth by ensuring full disclosure and upholding principles of accountability and good governance,” the PSA said.
The union also called for a police investigation into possible offences of misbehaviour in public office and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
It plans to write to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Commissioner of Police to initiate investigations into the allegations against senior WASA officials.
The PSA further condemned the Government’s ongoing restructuring efforts at WASA, accusing it of scapegoating workers while shielding top officials who enjoy six-figure salaries.
“No government minister has the right to interfere in WASA’s operations,” the PSA declared. “This judgment sends a clear message that attempts to intimidate workers and undermine due process will not be tolerated.”
The association demanded fairness for workers like Cecil Matthews, accountability from WASA leadership, and an end to political interference that undermines public trust and corporate governance. “Heads must roll, and justice must prevail,” the PSA concluded.
