I couldn't understand the fuss made by some women, especially women parliamentarians, in reaction to the allegation of sexual harassment against ANC chief whip Mbulelo Goniwe.

I couldn't understand the fuss made by some women, especially women parliamentarians, in reaction to the allegation of sexual harassment against ANC chief whip Mbulelo Goniwe.

It's important to respect the innocence of individuals until they're found guilty.

That's why it was unnecessary for the women's caucus to invite the media and to reflect on the issue even before it was presented to the party structures.

Issues of this nature must be properly processed. There is no need to sensationalise sensitive and emotional matters, especially when they involve names of senior ANC leaders.

ANC chief whips have gone through thick and thin for some time. One is unsure if this comes as a result of their political positions. They are expected to uphold the party policy positions and uproot any form of self-centrism, opportunism and corruption.

This makes it difficult to whip and discipline those who break party positions.

Some people will obviously search for mistakes and capitalise heavily on them. Now the validity of allegations of sexual harassment against the chief whip should be thoroughly investigated before we jump to conclusions about his guilt.

Status does not give prominent people leeway to disrespect or infringe on other people's rights.

Refentse Mangope

Mohlakeng