Mabe cleared in sex case
SPOKESPERSON: ACCUSED OF HARASSING FEMALE ANC EMPLOYEE
Woman’s ‘poor performance’ led him to inquire about her qualifications.
ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe has been cleared of sexual harassment charges by the party’s grievance panel, City Press reported. He was accused by his former personal assistant of three instances of sexual harassment, but the panel was reportedly not impressed with her evidence.
News24 reported last year that Mabe had requested to be placed on leave pending the outcome of the internal investigation into the woman’s allegations.
The woman apparently said Mabe treated her badly after she complained about his alleged advances and that her salary was cut because of her complaint.
Mabe, in turn, said the complaint against him was motivated by the salary reduction.
The woman has also laid charges against Mabe with the police. Eyewitness News reported last year that the Hawks had taken notice of the case, although it had not been given to them at that stage.
The Sunday Times reported that Mabe said the woman’s “poor performance” had led him to inquire about her qualifications. He reportedly discovered that she had lied about her CV and her salary was reduced.
The matter is reportedly to be challenged at a national executive committee meeting on Sunday, as the woman’s supporters feel the panel’s handling was unfair.
The panel has apparently recommended that the ANC adopt a sexual harassment policy. – News24