Vavi rape allegations spark concern

2013-08-02 10:51

Sapa

Johannesburg - Workplaces need to develop policies to protect men and women from sexual misconduct, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) said on Thursday.

"The CGE calls on all places of employment to be vigilant by developing and creating policies that ensure that workplaces are safe for women and men of our country," it said in a statement.

The commission was reacting to the recent allegation of rape against Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi.

A woman who made the accusation was Vavi's work colleague. Last week, Vavi released documents to the media, including an internal complaint by the woman in which she accuses him of rape.

Rape vs consensual sex

Vavi denied raping her, saying they had consensual sex. He admitted to an extramarital affair but claimed she later attempted to extort R2m from him.

The woman brought a complaint of sexual harassment against him, but it was withdrawn during an internal grievance proceeding this week.

The CGE said the allegation was "unfortunate".

"Sexual misconduct in the workplace must be avoided," it said.

"We, therefore, request that responsible and accountable leaders must cover themselves in glory at all times and be exemplary to the youth."

'I'm sorry'

On Friday, Vavi apologised to its members and the country following the allegations.

"I have erred and in the process embarrassed my family and disappointed many South Africans who looked to me to provide moral leadership," he said in a speech prepared for delivery at an SA Democratic Teachers' Union biennial general meeting in Port Elizabeth.

He said he would work hard to regain the lost trust of both his family and the nation.

"I am back on my feet. I have a mandate to fulfil," he said.

Comments

Godfrey Welman - 2013-08-02 11:18
Why are you only focusing on "leadership" even juniors are subjected to claims of sexual harassment, especially where shift work is involve.
Hussein - 2013-08-02 11:39
I have a video recording of the whole thing...for a small fee you can get to see it. CNN and BBC wanted to purchase it for a ridiculously high amount of hard currency.
James Pule Thobela - 2013-08-02 11:45
100% Missmizz Sabath
Twerk French Twerk - 2013-08-02 11:57
Must be fired for sexually misconduct
Bianca-Anne - 2013-08-02 12:04
It is alarming how "rape" has became a manner of getting even. How many women shout "rape" when no rape took place, and they did not get out of the "relationship" what they anticipated? Concerning how these women makes it difficult for real victims to step forward. When the real victims of rape often have no voice, no remedy. Such women makes me sick.
Patricia Dewet - 2013-08-02 12:08
It takes two to tango, if that is the way people want to behave it is fine with me, they are all grownups. But is you landed in jail or well beaten up, do not complain. You cannot expect the boss to nanny the workers.
Oarabile Rodney M - 2013-08-02 12:11
For the millionth time there was no rape nor sexual harassment,there was consensual sex between two consenting adults,if anythng Vavi should be charged with misconduct at work
Joe White - 2013-08-02 13:54
A bit off the topic here but... there is no such thing as gender equality. What aggravates matters is that gender equality is wrapped up in BBBEE policies. This makes things very very tough for men out there. Affirmative groups must make very sure that they also don't use rape stats to discriminate. There are millions of men out there that are innocent.
Sandra Rennie - 2013-08-02 14:19
Whether it was rape or consensual makes no different. Vavi is a leader and should show leadership qualities and this sex at the office of a married man is just not on. But then again it comes from the top. If the big boss does it, then the rest of the team can do it. Not that it ever stopped the juniors doing it either. People of this culture are attracted to each other like magnates.
Semma Aphane - 2013-08-02 14:25
They should just make it illegal for people to engage in any form of sexual activities at the office whether you are wife/hubby or girlfriend or boyfriend. If you have the hots for one another take it outside the work place, finish & klaar.
Elizabeth Pfizer - 2013-08-03 14:53
You didn't lead by example on this one. We fight against sexual harassment yet you are found in the same predicament though you said consensual. I feel sorry for the guy whose wife had sex with you. Its quite disturbing and am sure he will be haunted by this in his lifetime. You better meet with him and apologise face to face as a gentleman.