Today we dismissed a staff member who had not performed to the required standards of behaviour and performance during his probation period. It was a serious and difficult encounter of which I was willing but not happy participant. I completely agree with the decision that has been made but as I watched him pack up his things I was moved by compassion for this man. I was sad to see him go through the indignity of losing his job and that he was unable to perform and behave better. In that moment it would have been tempting give him another chance in the hope his best might shine through. In this country wracked by conflict, suffering and where decent work is difficult to come by, it’s unclear the immediate and longer term effects may be for him and his family. I learnt an important lesson today – you must be convinced beyond any doubt that a dismissal is justified and carry the action out swiftly and with great humanity. For NGOs working in a country like the DRC, there is a very real risk of repercussions. Although he maintained his composure during the process, it was clear that as he left the compound for the last time, the man who had lost his job was angry. His parting words were that he would seek justice. Tonight I go to bed in the firm belief that we did the right thing but also in the sober knowledge that our actions today may cause us problems and even put the lives of those involved in the process at risk.
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