Media Statement by the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Marius Fransman, on the case of Prof. Cyril Karabus, City Lodge, OR Tambo International Airport
The South African Government will closely monitor the court proceedings in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on Tuesday, 23 April 2013, where Professor Cyril Karabus will appear in court for the second time in the appeal case.
Prof. Karabus is an emeritus Professor at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and specialist paediatric oncologist.
The appeal was lodged* by the prosecution after the Court cleared Prof Karabus on all charges of manslaughter and forgery brought against him after the unfortunate death of a young cancer patient he treated in Abu Dhabi 11 years ago.
As government, we have repeatedly expressed our grave concern with the anxiety and trauma that the 78 year-old Prof Karabus and his family have been subjected to as a result of the continued postponements that have characterised this case.
The Government of South Africa has since the beginning of this ordeal remained seized with this matter and provided extensive consular assistance Prof Karabus and his family. The South African Embassy staff in Abu Dhabi regularly visit and call Prof Karabus. We are also in regular telephonic contact with his family. Our embassy staff has attended all court hearings and continues to do so.