07 Apr 2026

Lawyer and Managing Attorney at Ndadi Law Firm, Mr Uyapo Ndadi, has raised concern over the growing prevalence of workplace bullying, describing it as persistent behaviour that belittles individuals, diminishes their value and creates hostile working environments.

Speaking during a workshop organised by Kweneng Regional Operations staff in Molepolole recently, Mr Ndadi said workplace bullying remained a serious but often underreported issue that required urgent attention.

He explained that bullying was not a new phenomenon, noting that it often began early in life, at school, at home and even within institutions such as churches, before extending into the workplace in various forms.

“Bullying is a repeated pattern of behaviour aimed at undermining a person’s worth. It can take many forms, including verbal abuse, intimidation, exclusion, manipulation, spreading rumours and abuse of authority,” he said.

Mr Ndadi revealed that the impact of workplace bullying could be severe, with some employees nearly resigning due to pressure, while others were forced to seek professional help from psychologists and psychiatrists because of emotional and mental strain.

He added that bullying also affected workplace productivity and often spilled over into employees’ personal lives, disrupting peace within families and homes.

According to Mr Ndadi, perpetrators were often driven by insecurity, unresolved personal issues, arrogance and, in some cases, jealousy.

He further warned that power imbalances in workplaces discouraged victims from reporting incidents, as they feared victimisation or retaliation. He added that some perpetrators were highly manipulative and could portray themselves as victims when confronted.

“There is currently no specific law that directly addresses workplace bullying in the Public Service Act or Employment Act, but existing legal frameworks can be applied to deal with such cases,” he said.

Mr Ndadi emphasised the need for stringent measures against perpetrators and called on government to develop clear policies that define workplace bullying and make it clear that such behaviour will not be tolerated.

Participants at the workshop confirmed that bullying was common in workplaces and could be perpetrated by both supervisors and subordinates.

Kweneng Regional Operations Wellness Coordinator, Ms Anastacia Mokgware, said the workshop aimed to promote a positive work culture rooted in openness, respect and inclusivity.

She noted that workplace bullying contributed to challenges such as absenteeism, abuse of sick leave, low morale, reduced productivity and poor teamwork.

Ms Mokgware added that the initiative sought to foster safe and peaceful working environments where employees feel valued and protected.

“We want to cultivate a culture where both supervisors and subordinates treat each other with respect and where workplaces are safe spaces for everyone,” she said. ENDS