By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has refused to comment after the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) declined to prosecute him for alleged sexual assault.
Godongwana’s spokesperson Mfuneko Toyana said he would “not be commenting for now”.
The finance minister has his work cut out for him as he prepares to table his second Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement as a global recession looms, coupled with South Africa’s massive energy crisis, escalating inflation, fluctuating fuel prices and the country’s high unemployment rate.
NPA spokesperson Monica Nyuswa said the decision followed “a thorough assessment” of the evidence as well as consideration of the complainant’s refusal to proceed with the case, despite the State’s offer of support.
Nyuswa said: “The National Prosecuting Authority remains steadfast in vigorously prosecuting sexual offence cases and gender-based violence.”
Godongwana was accused of sexually assaulting a masseuse at a Kruger National Park hotel while on vacation.
The complainant alleged it happened on 9 August, and the alleged incident was reported on 11 August.
Although Godongwana admitted to being at the hotel on the said date, he denied sexually abusing the woman. He also denied knowing or bribing her.