Court rules employers cannot ban romantic relationships among employees

He stated: “Nothing is more degrading than for a third party, an employer, to intermeddle in a love relationship between two consenting adults.”

In his ruling, Justice Rika emphasised that romantic relationships at work should be left to their own natural course.

He urged employers to allow their employees to thrive both personally and professionally, stating, “It is a harebrained law or policy that would seek to outlaw the affairs of the heart. Employers must leave Bill and Melinda Gates within their undertakings to grow and to find themselves in each other, while they continue to be productive to the business."

He added that there was no valid reason shown by the employer to justify the termination of the claimant's contract, maintaining Sections 43 and 45 of the Employment Act were not honoured.

The judge's remarks highlighted the importance of privacy and personal freedom at the workplace.

The case revealed a complex web of allegations, including claims that MN had influenced the transfer of DJ and made unwanted advances towards her.

Both MN and DJ admitted to their romantic relationship, but the judge found no evidence supporting the claims of misconduct. Notably, DJ faced her own challenges when she falsely claimed that MN had impregnated her, which was disproven by a DNA test.

Justice Rika scrutinised the company's policies, particularly clause 14 of their sexual harassment policy, which prohibited romantic relationships.

He ruled that such policies infringe on the privacy rights of employees and are not legally defensible. “In progressive jurisdictions, courts have intervened in favour of protecting workplace romance, so long as it does not affect work performance,” he stated.

The judge concluded that the evidence presented did not justify MN’s termination.

He emphasised the potential benefits of workplace romance, suggesting that it could even strengthen company dynamics and morale.

In a world where workplace relationships are often viewed with skepticism, Justice Rika’s ruling serves as a reminder that love can thrive even in professional settings, so long as it is approached with respect and discretion.

Justice Rika encouraged employers to embrace the complexities of human relationships, urging them to create an environment where love can blossom without fear of retribution.