The Pan-Cypriot Multiple Sclerosis Association, in its statement, “condemns the removal of the journalist from the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation, Despina Rousou,” from her duties, “a decision that was taken arbitrarily and without respect and dignity.”
The Pan-Cypriot Multiple Sclerosis Association also expresses “strong dissatisfaction and protest against the heartless and unjust treatment of a person with a disability and calls for the immediate intervention and support of the relevant authorities regarding this poor treatment,” as stated, by the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (RIK).
The Pan-Cypriot Multiple Sclerosis Association hopes for “the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities.”
It also states that “unfortunately, there are still individuals and services that infringe upon the rights of persons with disabilities, who, despite their health problems, continue to struggle and advocate for their right to work.”
“Instead of being rewarded for their resilience, they are being degraded in this way,” concludes the Pan-Cypriot Multiple Sclerosis Association.
The letter from the Pan-Cypriot Multiple Sclerosis Association regarding Despina Rousou:
“On behalf of the Federation of Cyprus Patient Associations (OSAK), we express our strong protest and indignation at the unacceptable behavior and undignified treatment that Mrs. Despina Rousou has experienced.
Mrs. Rousou is a person with chronic illness and disabilities, who has been employed at RIK for many years, a member of the Executive Committee of OSAK, and has been an active volunteer with significant contributions to the patient movement for many years.
Despite facing multiple health problems and disabilities, Mrs. Rousou has been working with unparalleled integrity and dedication in her duties for several decades (please note that according to our information, she has one of the lowest sick leave records at RIK), without ever invoking her illness or disability to seek any favorable treatment.
Mrs. Rousou serves as a shining example to all of us and should receive the support and encouragement of the management of the Foundation to enable her to work and perform her duties, rather than being subjected to the “disrespectful and degrading behavior” as noted in the report by the Commissioner for Administration, Mrs. Maria Stylianou Lottides.
Unfortunately, the consequences for her health resulting from the above are serious, and due to the exacerbation of her illness, she is unable to work and is hospitalized.
The unfavorable treatment she received from the management of RIK and the unacceptable practices are condemnable, and for this reason, we urge you to take immediate action and restore order and respect for the rights of Ms. Rousou.
We call on the President of the Board of Directors of RIK to restore order and respect for human rights, both for Ms. Rousou and for all employees in general at the state channel, which should promote respect for human rights through the decisions of its management and serve as an example to be followed in our country.”
Source: Φilenews
