EDITORIAL: The unvaccinated can’t have it both ways

We have said before that, as a principle, we do not subscribe to the principle of forced vaccinations. We are clear in our position that everyone has a right to make their personal choice in this regard and, perhaps importantly, live by the consequences of their decision. No one’s decision should be a burden to another person.

The situation at Namcor, where the company is demanding negative PCR test results weekly from its unvaccinated employees, is one of the natural consequences of such employees’ decision.

Namcor as a legal person reserves its rights too – just as the natural persons who are its employees. The company is not forcing needles into the shoulders of anyone. The option to remain unvaccinated remains, except that there’s need for a negative PCR test result.

If one cannot comply with either options, that’s outright arrogant. You cannot enjoy the benefits of both scenarios when you have chosen only one of them.

This week, we have seen screaming headlines about the local tourism industry complaining that its business has been adversely affected by global perceptions that our country is not safe – due to low vaccine rates.

Unfortunately, with Covid-19, our personal choices regarding vaccinations do not only impact our personal selves and our families, but society as a whole too. Our decisions in this regard have far-reaching consequences on our communities – whether positive or not.