WC Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC, Anroux Marais, as acting Community Safety MEC, following Fritz' suspension

Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde has appointed Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC, Anroux Marais, as the acting MEC of Community Safety.

In a statement, Winde said that Marais will ensure that the Department of Community Safety continues to ‘’respond to communities’ safety needs and to drive our important safety priorities.’’

The decision comes after Fritz was suspended following serious allegations made against him.

‘’I know there have been many questions raised around the nature of the allegations which resulted in the suspension of Minister Fritz. It is always my preference to be open and transparent with residents of the province and the media. In this case, however, noting specific requests by the complainants for confidentiality, the seriousness of the allegations made and the rights of all parties to a fair and unprejudiced investigation into the veracity of the claims made, I may not do so at this stage,’’ said Winde.

Premier Winde assured citizens that he is treating this matter in a serious manner.

 ‘’Finally, I have noted many rumours and reports by individuals who wish to politicise this matter. I will not play politics with the wellbeing of people and would like to urge anyone who views this matter as a political football to show restraint, especially in consideration of the requests made by the complainants and the rights of all to a fair process.,’’ added winde.

Furthermore, Fritz stepped down as Western Cape Provincial Leader, until the completion of the investigation into allegations levelled against him.

‘’Mr Fritz will provide his full cooperation and has stepped down to allow the investigation to proceed unhindered,’’ said Jaco Londt, DA Western Cape Provincial Chairperson.

Deputy Leader, Tertuis Simmers, will be Acting Leader for the time being.

 

Done By: Mitchum George