The Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) has upheld the demotion of a senior female university officer. However, it set aside the university’s lifetime ban on her promotion and appointment to administrative positions.
The ruling came after the officer challenged disciplinary action imposed by a government university. FOSPAH maintained that the principal punishment complied with the law.
Ombudsperson Upholds Misconduct Finding
According to the decision, the dispute began after the officer visited the registrar’s office. She reportedly asked to take a selfie with the university’s male registrar.
The registrar informed her that he lacked authority to appoint her to the desired position. Subsequently, the complaint alleged that her behaviour changed.
FOSPAH said the registrar accused the officer of threatening to release videos and file a false harassment complaint. Additionally, she allegedly threatened to publicise irregularities at the university through the media.
The decision stated another university official witnessed part of the interaction. However, the officer repeatedly asked that official to leave the room.
According to FOSPAH, the registrar secretly recorded the conversation after feeling threatened. He later moved to another office, but the officer allegedly followed him.
Lifetime Ban Declared Beyond Legal Authority
During the inquiry, the recorded conversation was played before the committee. FOSPAH said the officer admitted her conduct and submitted two written apologies.
The university inquiry committee found her guilty of workplace harassment and imposed several disciplinary penalties. These included demotion, a three-year promotion ban and a lifetime administrative ban.
After reviewing the case, FOSPAH upheld the finding of misconduct and the demotion. The ombudsperson noted workplace harassment includes intimidation, coercion and creating a hostile environment.
However, FOSPAH ruled the lifetime ban exceeded penalties permitted under the applicable law. Consequently, it removed that sanction while maintaining her demotion to deputy registrar.
