Investigation launched into Mpumalanga Premier not wearing a mask in public
Police Minister, Bheki Cele, has asked for an investigation into the conduct of Mpumalanga Premier, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, who was spotted on national TV not wearing a mask at the funeral of Jackson Mthembu in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga on Sunday.
Cele says the matter was brought to his
attention from various corners of society.
“If South Africa wants to beat this invisible
enemy which is COVID-19, we simply can’t let down our guard down. This is why I
have spoken to the National Commisioner of the South African Police Service,
General Khehla Sitole to look into the matter of the Premier and an
investigation must be conducted, and necessary action must be taken,” says
Cele.
“Any person who fails to comply with a verbal
instruction by a law enforcement officer, to wear a mask, commits an offence,
and is, upon conviction, liable to a fine or a period of imprisonment, not
exceeding six months or both,” warns the Minister.
In a statement, the Mpumalanga Premier claimed that
her mask was damaged and somehow fell off without her realising that she was
not wearing her mask.
“Upon arrival at the cemetery and disembarking
from her vehicle, the Premier’s mask was damaged, and the Premier was oblivious
of the fact that it had fallen off. The Premier was of the belief that the mask
was intact as had been the case throughout the proceedings.’’
‘’The Premier’s aides promptly sought a
replacement mask which the Premier utilized for the rest of the proceedings,”
reads the statement.
The Premier has since apologised, and reitersed
the importance of mask-wearing.
‘’Mtsweni-Tsipane extends an apology for that momentary
lapse, where her mask fell without her being aware of it. We emphasise the
importance of adhering to the COVID-19 regulations, and urge people to wear
masks constantly.”
Done By: Mitchum George
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