TNPA lease issue ‘sub judice’

Following an article in the Mossel Bay

Advertiser, regarding the lease of the former Mossel Bay Yacht and Boat Club (MBYBC) premises to the company, the Mossel Bay Waterfront, allegedly coming to an end, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), who is the lessor, has supplied comment on the situation.

On Monday, 14 June, TNPA responded to an enquiry made last week by the Advertiser.

At the time of going to press last week, TNPA's response had not yet been received.

In the statement received on Monday, TNPA notes that, as a State-owned enterprise, it prides itself on co-operation and engagement with all roleplayers involved in the port industry.

"On more than one occasion, TNPA has fully cooperated with all media houses on enquiries pertaining to port operations and other aspects the Port of Mossel Bay which are of public interest.

"Notwithstanding, in this particular instance, TNPA is faced with a dilemma.

"The issue at hand is currently sub judice.

The matter is the subject of a formal legal process, and within this context we humbly request the media to allow the related processes to unfold. As we are all aware, the sub judice rule is an extension of the common law rule that the proper administration of justice may not be prejudiced or interfered with. "This principle exists to protect the rights of all parties. Until the legal process is concluded, we regret to advise we are precluded from commenting further.

"We humbly request that you allow that process to run its course," the statement concluded.