John Sithole

Based on the employee's active verbal warning for absenteeism issued on 12 February 2025 (within the 6-month validity period under the company's disciplinary code) and the current incident involving 5 consecutive days of unauthorised absence (28 May – 2 June 2025), it may be appropriate to consider escalation to a Written Warning in line with the principle of progressive discipline.

The detected Monday/Friday pattern in absenteeism incidents strengthens the grounds for a formal written warning as it indicates a pattern of behaviour rather than isolated incidents.

Should the employee have a valid reason (e.g. a medical certificate covering the full period) that has not yet been considered, management should afford the employee an opportunity to respond before finalising any action, consistent with the audi alteram partem principle.