The story: Two high-ranking South African diplomats are preparing to take further steps after the Labour Court dismissed their application for an interim order that would have allowed them to stay in their postings due to them being in the high-risk category should they contract Covid-19.
The context: Minister Plenipotentiary in Brussels Suhayfa Soobedan and Titi Nxumalo, the consul-general in Milan, approached the court before Christmas to seek an urgent order to stop the Department of International Relations and Cooperation from cutting off their cost of living allowances, afforded to diplomats to help them cover their living expenses when abroad, and to stop the department from withdrawing their diplomatic status, which could mean they would be deported.
What was said: "There can be no quarrel with the submissions made on behalf of the applicants that Covid-19 presents new challenges worldwide, especially in the workplace," said Judge Edwin Tlhotlhalemaje.
