The Labour Court found that Citibank discriminated against Massinde Ntoko on racial grounds when it dismissed him, and ordered €15,000 in compensation. The determination was signed on 8 March 2004.
Citibank said it dismissed Mr Ntoko, an agency worker, for making a personal call on its telephone system. Mr Ntoko said a colleague had allowed him to use the phone after working hours and that he had not been told personal calls were prohibited. The Court found that he had received no orientation, that the rule was not routinely enforced and that he was dismissed without an opportunity to explain, while other staff had made personal calls.
The Court concluded that Mr Ntoko had been singled out for special unfavourable treatment and found Citibank’s explanation unconvincing. The €15,000 award included €2,000 for loss of earnings.