A disturbing case of alleged workplace harassment has come to light in Pretoria, where Esethu Hasane, an employee at the Department of Transport, has reportedly endured sustained abuse over a nine-month period, ultimately leading to his hospitalization.
The shocking revelation comes via a bombshell media statement released by Hasane’s family, who claim the prolonged mistreatment had a severe impact on his mental and physical well-being. The details, though not yet officially confirmed by departmental authorities, paint a troubling picture of a workplace environment that allegedly failed to intervene.
According to the family, Hasane repeatedly raised concerns internally about a “hostile and toxic environment,” but those pleas were either ignored or inadequately addressed. The emotional toll escalated to the point that medical intervention became necessary, with Hasane now reportedly recovering in a healthcare facility.
“This could have been prevented,” the statement reads. “Our son was subjected to consistent humiliation, intimidation, and neglect by those meant to protect him.”
The Department of Transport has not yet issued an official response to the allegations. However, pressure is mounting for an independent investigation into the claims, with labor rights groups and civil service watchdogs calling for accountability, transparency, and systemic reform within public sector workplaces.
Why it matters:
This incident raises broader concerns about the state of employee well-being in South Africa’s civil service and the mechanisms (or lack thereof) for addressing complaints of workplace harassment. It also puts a spotlight on mental health in professional environments, an issue increasingly recognized but still largely stigmatized.
