Mashatile's office confirms suspension of spokesperson amid sexual harassment allegations
The suspension follows media reports over the weekend accusing Deputy President PauMashatile of not acting on the matter - which was reported to his office last year.
Deputy President of South Africa Paul Mashatile on a two-day oversight visit in Eastern Cape. Picture: X/PresidencyZA
JOHANNESBURG - The office of Deputy President Paul Mashatile has confirmed that his spokesperson Vukani Mde has been suspended with immediate effect amid allegations of sexual harassment.
The suspension follows media reports over the weekend accusing Mashatile of not acting on the matter - which was reported to his office last year.
Mde is accused by a female staffer who reports directly to him of making sexual advances towards her.
Mashatile's office said Mde has been relieved of his duties with full pay while the investigation continues.
"He has been suspended with immediate effect to allow the process of the investigation and finalisation of the matter by the relevant structures in the public service. So from today, he does not speak on behalf of the DP [Deputy President] until the matter is sorted out if he does come back," said spokesperson Keith Khoza.