SANParks CEO takes special leave amid allegations of sexual assault

The South African National Parks (SANParks) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Fundisile Mketeni will take special leave from his work engagements in light of assault and sexual assault allegations.

According to SANparks, the complaints against Mketeni was lodged on Friday, 7 May in Skukuza, Kruger National Park.

CEO AND THREE OTHERS IN COURT ON SIMILAR CHARGES

SANParks Board Chairperson Joanne Yawitch said, in a media statement, that the CEO has taken special leave while he allows the law to takes its course.

“In line with SANParks’ commitment to ethical conduct and the seriousness of the allegations, Mr Mketeni has requested to take special leave until such time that this matter has been resolved and the law has taken its course.”

According to Yawitch, Mketeni appeared in court on Monday, 11 May, together with three other individuals on similar charges. The accused reportedly include two men, also employed by SANParks and a woman who is not an employee.

SANPARKS TAKES ALLEGATIONS IN SERIOUS LIGHT

Yawitch added that there will be an internal investigation to ascertain whether there were any improper or illegal conduct.

“The Board of SANParks views the allegations made in an extremely serious light and will allow the court proceedings to take their course and reach conclusions on the allegations.

“The Board will however investigate whether the circumstances surrounding the allegations led to any improper or illegal conduct which may affect the employment relationship,” said Yawitch.

In the interim Dr Luthando Dziba, the Managing Executive of Conservation Services, has been appointed as Acting CEO.

READ: SANParks laments arrest of employees for alleged rhino poaching



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