Civil Service Association President Thecla Goodman spoke candidly on Monday about recent leadership challenges within the organisation, including the resignation of two executive board members and concerns over the scheduling of the CSA’s Annual General Meeting.
“As a leader, I am not expecting everybody to agree with what I say, what I do. I’m expecting us to work together. So we have butted heads on a couple of things, but to me the focus has to remain on our members. And that is where my focus has been, on doing what is best and what is right for our members,” Goodman said.
She acknowledged the pressures of holding executive positions within the CSA.
“At CSA, once you take up those positions, you have to realise that these positions will become challenging. And people have the right, if it’s too challenging, to resign. And so I think that is what has happened. I wish the secretary and the assistant secretary treasurer well. And to note, there are so many people lined up now wanting to take up their positions so that CSA can continue moving forward,” she added.
Goodman also addressed reports of confusion regarding members’ attendance at the AGM.
“We usually write to the Public Service asking for time off for members to attend meetings. And there was some miscommunication between CSA and Public Service. When that was brought to my attention, I called the GS, and we had to take action right away because, you know, December month is a month that is very disturbed. So between the GS and I, we decided that we will reach out to Public Service to get the corrective letters sent out for permission from members to attend the AGM. And that date will be on Thursday, the 11th of December.”
Her remarks emphasised a focus on continuity and cooperation, assuring members that the CSA remains committed to serving their interests despite recent disruptions.