Police in the Eastern Cape are investigating serious allegations of rape involving a member of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s national executive and an AmaMpondo princess. The alleged incident reportedly occurred after a royal gathering in Mthatha in November, as confirmed by police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli.
Nkohli stated that a case of rape was officially opened on Friday, and following a preliminary investigation, the matter has been referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further review. “A preliminary investigation was conducted, and the case has been sent to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision,” said Nkohli.
The alleged victim, an AmaMpondo princess, has bravely come forward to share details of the incident with the Daily Dispatch, a sister publication of Sowetan. While legal restrictions prevent the public identification of both the accused and the princess until the accused enters a plea in court, she has expressed her willingness to be named if necessary.
The princess recounted that the alleged incident took place after a royal function. Following a gathering where they hosted the man at their homestead for lunch, she received a call inviting her to his hotel room. “We hosted him at our homestead, and he came over for lunch. We made a braai and bought bottles like any royal house would when a person visits,” she explained.
After leaving, the man reportedly called her to his hotel, where she claims the incident occurred. “We chilled, and he told me how he felt and intensely kissed me, and, yes, [allegedly] forced [himself] on me,” she stated. The princess noted that instead of seeking immediate medical help, she initially confided in her brother and uncles about the incident.
She further revealed that she had previously been in a close relationship with the man but maintained that they had never been physically intimate. She emphasized her commitment to celibacy and made it clear that she was not interested in engaging in an extramarital affair.
As police investigations continue, the public awaits the NPA’s decision regarding the next steps in the case.
