Dishonourable dismissal of k-word liars welcomed

7 May 2021

Solidarity welcomes the outcome of the internal disciplinary hearing of the two members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) who had falsely accused Lieutenant-Colonel Annemarie Oosthuizen of calling them the k-word. The hearing followed after these two were convicted of perjury, defeating the ends of justice, assault and crimen injuria in 2020 and, among other things, received suspended prison sentences.

“Although we are delighted with the verdict, we are still following events within the SAPS regarding warrant officers Mphana and Tikoe. After the hearing, the provincial commissioner of the SAPS has yet to ratify the verdict that will make the dismissal valid. It is important that this process does take place. It is outrageous that SAPS members who commit criminal offenses are allowed to continue to function as working SAPS members,” said Renate Barnard, sector coordinator of the Public Sector at Solidarity.

According to Solidarity, for four years the SAPD failed to take any steps against these two guilty members of the SAPS whose false accusations of racism has led to their criminal offences. Solidarity further believes that the outcome of the internal hearing makes it clear that criminal offences will not be tolerated within the SAPS and that those who are guilty of such offences will be punished. 

“For the SAPS, the verdict is a step in the right direction and indicates that offenders must bear the consequences of their actions. The message now being conveyed is loud and clear: Do not make false accusations of racism, do not make false affidavits about racism, and do not turn to violence and threats in the workplace,” Barnard concluded.

Issued by Renate Barnard, Sector Coordinator: Public Sector, 7 May 2021