UPDATE: Home Affairs staff warned against cellphone use – Tongaat

The video of Tongaat Home Affairs front staff using cellphones during working hours, which exploded on social media earlier this month, resulted in written warnings for both officials involved.

This followed an internal investigation led by KZN provincial manager Cyril Mncwabe, which established that the officials were using their cell phones during a power outage which lasted approximately 20 minutes.

The video, and the responses it attracted, implied that the staff were on their cellphones instead of attending to clients waiting to be served.

The department claims the break in service was announced and the officials resumed their work once the system was restored.

“While there were compelling reasons for the two officials to use their cell phones during the service break, they should have rather excused themselves to attend to personal matters at the back office,” the department said in a statement.

The officials however, said they did not want to leave their posts as they wanted to continue with their functions as soon as the system was back online.

WATCH: Staff accused of texting while people wait at Tongaat Home Affairs

One was reportedly arranging for a child to be picked up from school and the other official was following up on repairs to his vehicle. Both were due to work overtime on the day.

According to the statement, the officials acknowledged their mistake and voluntarily apologised for the misjudgment.

Since there are no pending misconduct cases or investigations against them, and they render services diligently, they will receive only a written warning for their actions.

“On the basis of the findings and recommendations, a second chance is justifiable in this regard as it would encourage our officials to always exercise good judgement and adhere religiously to departmental policies,” said Home Affairs acting director-general Thulani Mavuso.

“Mr Mncwabe, home affairs provincial manager, will continue to ensure that officials adhere to the policy on the use of cellphones during working hours.”

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