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Protect whistleblowers in the fight against sexual harassment

By

Dear Editor

The recent allegations of sexual abuse against a senior official within the provincial Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) expose a deep failure within our government institutions to protect employees from abuse.

These accusations, now widely circulated on social media, highlight a culture of indifference to victims of sexual harassment and abuse within the provincial government departments.

Premier Oscar Mabuyane’s suspension of the Head of Department (HOD) and establishment of an investigation panel on Friday are the first concrete steps towards addressing these allegations. However, it is troubling that this action only came after weeks of public outcry.

This delayed response underscores the lack of urgency in tackling sexual abuse within provincial government institutions. If we are to truly confront gender-based violence in the province, this panel must be more than a token gesture. It must be the beginning of a genuine commitment to transparency, accountability, and reform.

Reports circulating on social media suggest that this issue runs far deeper than one individual, with some even referring to Bhisho as a ‘brothel.’ These shocking claims indicate a pervasive culture of sexual exploitation within government, where abuse is normalised, and perpetrators act with impunity.

Such a system not only fails victims but actively enables their mistreatment, highlighting the urgent need for structural change within our institutions.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) believes in the importance of transparent and swift justice. The investigation panel established by the Premier must be fully independent, and its findings must be made public. We urge the Premier to provide a clear timeline for the investigation and to implement measures that ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.

We also call for greater protections for whistleblowers, including stronger legislation to safeguard them from intimidation and victimisation. Without meaningful reforms, many will remain silent, and the cycle of abuse will continue unchecked.

We will be tabling a motion during the next sitting of the Provincial Legislature to call for a comprehensive whistleblower policy in our provincial government.

We urge anyone who has experienced or witnessed sexual abuse or harassment to come forward and engage with the panel. Your voice is crucial in bringing justice and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Now, more than ever, it is essential to break the cycle of silence and fear that protects abusers.

The DA will monitor the investigation closely to ensure justice is served and those responsible are held accountable. We call on the provincial government to commit to real change by creating a safe working environment for all employees and ending the culture of impunity that allows abuse to flourish.

Regards

Yusuf Cassim MPL
DA Chief Whip in the Eastern Cape Legislature

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