Legislature staff fear return of official in ‘sex tape’ scandal

STAFF at the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature (NCPL) fear that a sexual predator is lurking in the corridors, following the return of a senior official who was suspended after an alleged sex tape incident but has since been exonerated.

The official, who resumed duties on April 22, was reportedly caught “with his pants down” on CCTV footage, allegedly engaging in sexual intercourse with a staff intern in the library storeroom in January.

Employees claim that this was not the first such incident involving the official, although some encounters were said to be consensual.

“Often these matters go unreported, as some of the women do not want to jeopardise their marriages,” staff members said. “He was cleared of the charges and is back at work. However, it is unfair that indiscretions of this nature are going unpunished, as it is against company policy. The official was on paid suspension for three months.”

It is believed that the intern involved has since been relocated to her political office. 

The manager of Public Education and Communications at the NCPL, Carmen Gopane, confirmed that the official was allowed to return to work after being found not guilty.

“The NCPL is committed to upholding integrity, accountability and respect in the workplace,” she stated.

She explained that the employee had been placed on precautionary suspension in January, pending the outcome of the disciplinary process.

“Following the proceedings, appropriate sanctions were applied. It is crucial to clarify that the employee was not found guilty of sexual harassment,” she added.

Gopane stressed that all disciplinary processes remain confidential to protect the rights and privacy of the employees of the legislature and in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act.

“No further details will be disclosed, in adherence with these legal obligations. As part of its broader commitment to a safe working environment, the NCPL's comprehensive sexual harassment policy is supported by regular training and awareness programmes. These initiatives are designed to foster a culture of accountability and respect, ensuring all employees understand their roles in maintaining a safe and respectful working environment.

“The NCPL reaffirms its strong stance against all forms of misconduct, including sexual harassment, and outlines the proactive measures in place to foster a safe and supportive environment for all employees.” 

She noted that a men’s dialogue programme was hosted in February as part of ongoing initiatives to promote workplace safety and respect. 

“This programme addressed challenges faced by male employees, emphasised the importance of preventing workplace misconduct, and reiterated the NCPL's zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment. 

“The NCPL remains resolute in its mission to provide a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace for all employees and will continue to implement measures that reinforce these values.”