A councillor employed by the Stellenbosch Municipality was attacked and intimidated by a journalist who is associated with StellenboschNews.com on Monday, November 2. The Municipality has condemned this attack in the strongest terms possible.
“The attack took place in full view of other councillors, law enforcement officials and municipal officials following this morning’s urgent council meeting in the Stellenbosch Town Hall,” said Stuart Grobbelaar, municipality spokesperson.
“The councilor politely refused to comment on queries posed by the journalist, which ostensibly frustrated the journalist to the point where he verbally and physically intimidated the distraught councillor. After several attempts by onlookers to bring calm to the situation, the journalist continued hounding the councillor.”
Following the severe shock, the councillor received medical attention by paramedics directly after the altercation.
“Charges of assault and intimidation will be laid with the South African Police Service. Witnesses to this assault will also be preparing witness statements. We will also be contacting the Press Ombudsman to formally lay a complaint against the journalist,” Grobbelaar said.
“It is truly shocking that such an assault on a female councillor took place, especially as this is the month in which South Africans observe 16 Days of Activism for violence against women and children. The Municipality stands firmly opposed to any form of gender-based violence and denounces the despicable actions of this journalist.”
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