The Mpumalanga directorate of public prosecutions will not prosecute Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana for sexual assault allegations, it said in a statement on Monday.
“The decision follows a thorough assessment of all available evidence and after consultations with the complainant who expressly did not wish to proceed with the case despite being offered all the necessary support available to complainants in cases of this nature,” reads the statement.
“The National Prosecuting Authority remains steadfast in vigorously prosecuting sexual offence cases and gender-based violence.”
A complainant opened a case of sexual assault against the minister at the Skukuza police station on August 11. She alleged that Godongwana sexually assaulted her during a massage session at a hotel on August 9.
Godongwana admitted to being at a hotel with his wife at the time, but denied sexually abusing the woman, knowing her or bribing her.
The minister also agreed to step aside from his position should the ANC ask him to.
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