The Western Cape Government will fully support any inquiry by the South African Police Service relating to the allegations made against Minister Albert Fritz. Premier Alan Winde has also confirmed that a case has not yet been registered.
The independent investigation into the veracity of the allegations, which has now been established through the State Attorney, will provide Winde with assistance on further steps that are necessary or appropriate from an executive perspective.
“I also fully support the South African Police Service’s reminder that their doors remain open to the complainants. I have echoed this call to the complainants directly and note that it remains their choice to lay charges – one in which we must all respect”, says Alan Winde.
In addition to advising the complainants of their rights to lay criminal charges, the complainants have also been referred to an NGO dedicated to the assistance of complainants of the nature in question, having received confirmation from such NGO that such a referral would be appropriate and may proceed.
“This will ensure that every person who complains to my office is treated with sensitivity both within the investigation that I have initiated to determine Minister Fritz’s continued cabinet appointment, and in respect of any criminal or civil claim that the complainant in question may wish to pursue themselves”, further adds Winde.
On Wednesday 26 January, Winde received confirmation that Adv Jennifer Williams, an independent advocate, has been appointed through the State Attorney to conduct an external investigation into the veracity of the allegations made against Minister Albert Fritz.
On Thursday afternoon 27 January, Winde met with Advocate Williams to provide the details which were brought to his attention by several complainants, in the strictest of confidence. Winde will also provide her with the details around the actions steps that have been taken to date. This information should then enable her to begin her investigation immediately.
Once she does so, Alan Winde does not foresee himself having a further role to play in that aspect, that is, until he receives her report into the veracity of the complaints. She will however be offered Winde’s full support, as well as that of the Western Cape Government.
“I am determined to respect the requests of some of the complainants, which have been clearly articulated to me to date, and at the same time will do everything I can to ensure that justice is achieved”, Winde concluded.
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Picture: Cape {Town} Etc gallery