Assault allegations against DA MPL’s son

Issued by Wendy Philander – DAWN Chairperson, Western Cape
23 Jun 2020 in Press Statements

It has come to the attention of the DA Women’s Network (DAWN) in the Western Cape, through weekend social media posts, that the minor son of a DA member of the Provincial Legislature has been charged with sexual assault.

On further enquiry, it emerged that the alleged assault occurred last year, and that the court process began early this year.

As in all instances, we support due process of law, and the establishment of guilt or innocence through an independent judicial hearing.

As the Women’s Network, we are also cognisant of the scourge of gender based violence in South Africa, which is not a new phenomenon, but is at last getting the attention that it deserves.  We have always condemned gender based violence in any form, and will continue to do so, no matter who is involved.

Upon lodging an enquiry to Western Cape Provincial Minister of Education, Debbie Schäfer, on claims made of staff not attending to complaints at Table View High School, we were informed that an investigation is already underway and due process will follow pending the outcome.

Everyone must be equal before the law, and we reject any insinuation by anyone that political connections can be used to evade justice.

We have confidence that the wheels of justice continue to turn in this case, as well as every other matter, so that justice can be done and be seen to be done.