Commissioner Godfrey Khuzwayo was *********

I recently experienced a troubling example during a CCMA SA proceeding presided over by Commissioner Godfrey Khuzwayo. The employer sent a representative who clearly lacked both the intention and the authority to engage in meaningful conciliation. Rather than addressing this appropriately, Godfrey Khuzwayo appeared to side with the employer, prematurely declaring the matter unresolved and granting the employer the right to object to arbitration—despite numerous grievances being raised.

What made the experience particularly disappointing was the fact that the commissioner had been pulled from his lunch break to hear the matter. Unfortunately, it seemed that getting back to his meal took precedence over demonstrating the ethics, impartiality, and diligence expected of someone in his position. The livelihood of the applicant deserved far more respect and consideration.