Update

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The principal of a local school who was arrested and briefly appeared in court on charges of rape and sexual grooming last week, appeared in court again on Monday 17 February for his bail application. 

However, the spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority, Luxolo Tyali, informed Graaff-Reinet Advertiser that the case could not proceed and was remanded to 21 February due to the magistrate's illness on Monday.

Governing body (SGB) responds

In the meantime, the chairperson of the school's governing body (SGB) responded to Graaff-Reinet Advertiser's request for comment. According to him, the alleged rape was brought to the SGB's attention on Friday 8 February, whereafter they immediately conducted their due diligence. 

They also visited the victim and her family to offer support and seek permission to approach the Department of Education for assistance, ensuring that the necessary disciplinary processes in terms of departmental policies are followed and that the victim receives the necessary counselling. Additionally, the SGB had a meeting with the school parents to address their concerns and inform them of the steps that have already been taken and the way forward with the case.

Principal hands himself over

Following this, on Monday 10 February, the SGB was informed that the principal of the school had handed himself over to the police and was charged with the rape of a learner of the same school. 

Graaff-Reinet Advertiser subsequently established that, in addition to the charge of rape, the principal was also charged with sexual grooming. 

After the accused appeared in court on Monday 10 February, he was remanded in custody, and the case was postponed to Monday 17 February for a bail application.

Support to the learner and her family

"As the SGB chairperson I strongly condemn any form of sexual violence within the school and our community," he said. 

"Please be assured that the safety and well-being of our learners are our top priorities. We take all allegations of misconduct extremely seriously and are committed to ensuring that our school remains a safe and secure environment for all. 

Therefore, we will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities and strongly urge that the law takes its course." 

He added that, in addition to providing support to the learner and her family during this difficult time, the SGB requested the Department of Education to provide counselling services to any learners who may be affected by this situation. 

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