DA councillor in KZN suspended over ‘serious’ sexual harassment allegations
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The most prevalent sexual harassment behaviours (in order of occurrence) were unwanted touching, verbal remarks of a sexual nature and lustful staring. | African News Agency (ANA) Archives
DURBAN - A DA ward 28 councillor at the Msunduzi Municipality, Lucky Naicker, has been suspended after allegations of misconduct and sexual harassment were reported to the party on Tuesday.
Naicker has been ward councillor for the Northdale and Bombay Heights areas in Pietermaritzburg for six years.
DA leader in KZN Francois Rodgers said the party had concluded that given the seriousness of the allegation, it would be prudent to suspend Naicker pending an internal investigation.
“We can confirm that, after serious allegations of misconduct and sexual impropriety were lodged with the party, councillor Lucky Naicker has been suspended from all party activities. As such, we have instituted an inquiry into the veracity of these claims.
“In the event that they are proven beyond any reasonable doubt, criminal action will be taken, and should they be debunked, then the proper procedure will be followed to bring justice to the affected parties. We want to make it clear that the party will not hesitate to take action against anyone found guilty of contravening our values and Constitution,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers, however, said while he could not reveal any further details on the incidents or actual rape allegations, the party would, according to the law, presume innocence until guilt was proved.
Naicker said he was not at liberty to comment on the allegation levelled against him.
“The DA does not allow any of its members to comment on such issues, but has dedicated senior leaders to address it,” Naicker said.
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