Cape Town - A UCT professor has been cleared of sexual harassment and rape following an investigation by the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness (WCDH).
The department’s spokesperson, Mark van der Heever, said they view matters relating to any sexual misconduct in a serious light and hence the appointment of an independent investigating officer.
He said the allegations have been thoroughly and independently investigated. Due diligence was followed, all identified witnesses were interviewed and a comprehensive, in-depth final report has been concluded.
“The investigation, through interviews, has concluded that there is absolutely no material evidence to support the allegations made. The investigating officer’s report, through interviews with witnesses, found that fraudulent claims of rape and sexual harassment had been made and that evidence had been fabricated.”
Van der Heever added that the department does not shy away from dealing with allegations of sexual harassment, “but in doing so we remain fair to all parties involved. We continue to avail support to everyone affected by this matter.”
For years, the student levelled sexual harassment allegations against the professor, who is known to the “Weekend Argus”.
Last month, the paper reported that an investigation by the WCDH found that there were sufficient grounds to proceed with a precautionary suspension of the professor pending further investigation because the professor presented a threat to the student and other employees, and the conduct complained of was of a very serious nature.
The professor was never suspended. Instead, he continued with his work. Upon failure to suspend the professor, the “Weekend Argus” understands that the student then opted not to be part of the investigation as she felt that it would not be fair. The student was also suspended on allegations that she leaked information to the media about the case.
In a confidential letter addressed to the Chair of Council, the UCT executive and Student Representative Council (SRC), vice-chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng said the university did not have the “power” to suspend the alleged perpetrator.
“She was approached and asked to, but she choose not to participate in this independent investigation,” said Van der Heever.
The incident landed Phakeng in hot water when she tweeted that the victim could have an agenda after she refused assistance from the university.
Phakeng tweeted: “This student has refused help from the university. She must say what her real agenda is.”
She later apologised for this after she was dragged on social media, especially Twitter. The police are also still investigating the case, and the department said they will provide the contents of the report to the relevant investigating authorities.