Memorial University of Newfoundland Students’ Union Executive Director of Campaigns, Rana Abuidris, who was placed on a four-week unpaid suspension for misuse of her union credit card and absenteeism, has fired back with accusations of harassment.
Abuidris has since told MattBarter.ca that her punishment was “disproportionate.”
Abuidris said she acknowledges there were areas where she fell short, particularly in how her absences and the conditions under which she was working were communicated to the Board.
“In hindsight, I do wish I had come forward sooner and provided context more clearly,” she said.
She said she takes responsibility for the credit card charge, stating, “It should have been addressed earlier, even though the full amount was reimbursed through my pay.”
Abuidris added, “I respect the Board’s role in holding members accountable, and I understand the basis for their decision.”
However, she said the severity of the sanction went too far.
“I do believe the level of penalty, a reprimand and suspension at the maximum level, was disproportionate, particularly given that the full context, along with the scope and impact of the work carried out throughout my term, was not fully considered,” she said.
Abuidris argued that the concerns she raised about other executives were not treated the same way.
She said she provided supporting information regarding the Director of Finance, Farhan Probandho’s conduct, including instances of intoxication during work hours. She also raised concerns about the Executive Director of External Affairs, Nathan Gillingham’s fulfillment of his role, including concerns about portfolio responsibilities and eligibility as an enrolled, fee-paying member.
According to Abuidris, those concerns “did not result in the same level of escalation or action,” particularly given that a reprimand was later proposed by those same individuals.
“My goal in speaking on this is not to avoid accountability, but to ensure that the full picture is understood,” she said.
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