Valarie Otto and others in protest action
A government security worker is hitting back at Ministry of Works officials, calling their explanation for her recent job transfer “false” and accusing them of dishonesty in their public statements about the circumstances surrounding her reassignment.
Valerie Otto, who was transferred from her position at Burma Quarry to Adoms Building on August 1st, directly refuted claims made by Ministry Communications Officer Damani Tabor that she had requested the transfer on July 30th in the presence of HR executive Ms. Hamlin.
Damani Tabor, Ministry of Works Communications Officer
Otto provided a detailed timeline that contradicts the ministry’s version of events. She explained that she initially requested a transfer on July 14th when she approached the coordinator, Mr. Thomas, seeking to move away from a problematic situation with a colleague named Mr. Samuel.
“I went to Mr. Thomas on the 14th of July, and I told him I would like a chance because the guy, Mr. Samuel, we had a problem with him,” Otto explained. “I told him I don’t want to work there because I don’t want to interact with Mr. Samuel. I want my peace of mind.”
According to Otto, Thomas denied her request at that time, telling her, “I’m a good worker. He doesn’t want to remove me from there.” She said she accepted the denial and returned to her position.
The transfer only materialized, Otto claims, after industrial action began at the ministry. “When the whole strike comes forward now, this on the Wednesday that was the 30th… my supervisor then called me and said that I’m being transferred to Adoms Building,” she said.
Otto strongly disputed Tabor’s claim that she had made a recent request on July 30th or that HR was involved in the process. “I never saw the HR I went to Mr. Thomas in his office and the way he denied my request then and then magically on the 30th of July he told the supervisor he’s going to move me from the quarry to Adoms Building.”
Otto maintains her position that the timing of the transfer—coinciding with the industrial action—demonstrates retaliation for her participation in the labor dispute. Despite the controversy, she remains defiant about continuing to advocate for workers’ rights.
“This is why I’m going to forever stand up. If they want to fire me, they can’t fire me,” Otto declared.
The conflicting accounts highlight tensions between workers and management at the Ministry of Works, where industrial action has been ongoing over workers’ rights issues. Otto has previously stated that workers lack adequate representation, which led to the current dispute.
them must stop taking advantage of people and then present a narrative of innocence, MARIA, they want to see you
Maria where are you?
If what Ms. Otto says is true, this is pure victimization. No worker should face retaliation for standing up for their rights.
@Tamia – She seems to be very quiet in this. guess she haven’t shaken off from the carnival spirit
Why does it seem like there is always some sort of drama at Public Works? My lady I so agree with you. Your peace of mind should be priority, but if you are indeed being victimized then you should seek advice from your union rep
I come here to read about my country. I live in the US. But I hate to see lies being perpetuated, especially when they can impact someone’s career and reputation. Valerie Otto’s questions transparency and honesty in communications. It’s alittle weird when officials don’t own up to the truth and instead push false narratives. People deserve clarity and accountability, not misleading statements that only serve to cover up the real issues. with a colleague named Mr. Samuel.
It takes a lot of courage for a government worker to speak out publicly against their superiors. I’m sure they are worried about the potential repercussions. This kind of situation can create a chilling effect where other public servants are afraid to challenge decisions they believe are unfair. It’s crucial that this individual is protected from any retaliation for speaking their mind. We need to support our public servants and ensure their rights are respected.
The importance of a clear and fair transfer policy.
Ms Otto, yes it good to Stand for your right.but it seems like you have a big mouth.you went to your Boss’s offices and demand a transfer,he did’nt give it you before proper invrstigation. After he got the facts he comply with your request. Now you dont like the location of the transfer.you’re crying victamizeation.i reall believe you is the problem.you want just run in the office and say you want transfer and you get it right away thats not how it works hun.Move on with your fraudilent claim and act right we dont care who you vote fa Guwann!!