Afriforum questions allegations in Bergview College case

AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit have raised concerns about the rape allegations against Bergview College principal Jaco Pieterse, arguing that there is a lack of evidence and that he was not present at the scene.

Principal’s Whereabouts at the Time of Incident

An account on X released a letter indicating that AfriForum questions whether the alleged assault took place on school premises and whether Pieterse was involved.

Barry Bateman, from AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit, stated that on the day of the alleged rape, Pieterse was at another campus approximately two kilometres away.

Bateman emphasised that Pieterse remained at the school’s main campus and did not visit the location where the child was collected.

During this period, four staff members—three female teachers and one male groundskeeper—were present at the main campus.

Criticism of SAPS Investigation

AfriForum has criticised the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) request for a DNA sample from Pieterse, calling it an “abuse of process.”

However, SAPS has not publicly responded to this criticism.

Daily Maverick reported that AfriForum asserts there is no direct evidence implicating Pieterse in the crime.

“It is our instruction that Captain Javu, the investigating officer in this case, approached Mr Pieterse and requested a buccal sample. On the face of it, this request appears irrational and unwarranted. Mr Pieterse has never been, nor can he be, an official suspect in this investigation. Any suggestion to the contrary is inconsistent with the established facts and circumstances and amounts to baseless speculation, similar to the unfounded accusations circulating on social media.”

This was despite Police Minister Senzo Mchunu announced on 30 March 2025 that the principal was among three suspects implicated in the case.

Debate Over the Location of the Assault

AfriForum has questioned whether the alleged assault took place on school grounds.

Bateman stated that AfriForum believes the assault did not happen at the school, though this claim remains disputed.

The exact location of the alleged crime remains unverified, adding to public debate on the matter.

Public Reaction and Concerns About Justice

Critics have accused AfriForum of undermining the investigation, arguing that its stance could hinder justice for the victim.

Briefly reported that, the Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons With Disabilities Steve Letsike slammed lobby group AfriForum for representing the principal in the rape case.

Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, she said that the principal must subject himself to the process.

Meanwhile, the Eastern Cape Department of Education has deregistered Bergview College for failing to ensure learner safety, further intensifying concerns about school security.

Additionally, allegations on social media linking Pieterse to the crime have led to threats of violence against him, according to AfriForum.

Bateman clarified that AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit does not defend accused individuals but did consider a request to assist with defamation and threat-related cases.

He reiterated that if credible evidence ever emerges linking Pieterse to the crime.

AfriForum will withdraw its support, emphasising that its focus is on justice rather than defending individuals.

What are your thoughts on AfriForum’s stance in the Bergview College case?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

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