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Although cleared by the department, the National Prosecuting Authority is yet to decide on the matter.
Image for illustrative purposes. Picture: iStock
The female acting principal accused of assaulting a fellow female teacher has been vindicated from any wrongdoing, according to the Mpumalanga department of education.
The acting principal from Lifalethu Primary School in Embalenhle was arrested in November after she allegedly kicked her colleague in the groin.
It is alleged the incident happened in the school staffroom when the teacher was quarrelling with a community member.
“The department has investigated the matter and the investigation did not find any substantial evidence to confirm the allegations made against the acting principal. The findings were duly communicated to the complainant and to the union which represented her,” said Jasper Zwane, spokesperson for the Mpumalanga department of education.
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The department vindicated the teacher despite the fact that the police were still waiting for the National Prosecuting Authority to take a decision on the case.
The claim against the acting principal was brought to the department’s attention by the National Teachers’ Union.
Annerie Webber, DA spokesperson on education in the Mpumalanga legislature, said the party was not happy about the department’s investigation results.
“The DA finds it unacceptable that the acting principal accused of assaulting another teacher has not been suspended until the investigation has been concluded.
“With the country fighting so hard regarding violence against women and children, it is unacceptable that a female acting principal will engage in so much violence by attacking another female teacher,” said Webber.
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“Although the education department started an investigation five months ago, the incident should have been prioritised and resolved much sooner. This also raises the question why the principal position has not been filled.
“It seems the acting principal started in 2023 and by November 2024, when this incident happened, the department only then advertised the principal’s position. To date, no appointment has taken place.”
She added: “If proper processes were followed and when the previous principal retired and the vacancy was advertised, we probably would not have had such an incident. This behaviour cannot be justified by any means and there must be consequences.”
Sources said the deputy principal was not suspended during the five-month investigation.
Education expert Hendrick Makaneta said if the assaulted teacher was not happy with the outcome of the investigation, she had the right to challenge it.
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