Cape Town - The family of a woman who has accused DA councillor Antonio van der Rheede of sexual assault said they were upset and disappointed after he was released on R1 000 bail on Monday.
The 56-year-old councillor appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on rape and sexual assault charges.
Van der Rheede was arrested on Friday following allegations that he sexually assaulted a young woman in his community under the pretence of promising her a job.
The incident is alleged to have occurred in 2018.
While Van der Rheede has maintained his innocence, the women’s mother said they were upset and disappointed that he was out on bail.
“We are very upset about the bail being accepted and also very disappointed that he continues with his lies without shame.
One would have thought that the past three days he spent in jail would have got him thinking and remorseful.
“My daughter has suffered and has carried this hurt and violation with her for too long.
“It has affected our entire situation as a family and brought great trauma into all our lives. It took her extreme courage to stand up for women who are being abused on a daily basis and I am proud of her for that,” said the mother.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said the case was postponed to December 6 for further investigation and consultation.
“He is charged with sexual assault and rape. He was released on bail of R1000 with conditions that he must not contact the victim and that he must not visit her residency or her place of work,” he said.
Speaking to his supporters outside court, Van der Rheede said the charges against him were politically orchestrated.
“Sleeping for the first time in my life in a cell, it was not a nice experience. These charges are serious. I spent most of my life even before politics fighting for the rights of women and the youth. I will continue to do so.
“I believe that the justice system that we have is one that is sterling and justice will prevail. This is politically orchestrated and I know the truth will come out,” he said.
Several complaints about Van der Rheede have been lodged with the City and the office of the speaker said it is investigating a possible breach of the code of conduct for councillors.
DA MP Denis Joseph said the “frivolous” charges against the councillor emanate from jealousy within the community.
“I know there has been a whole build-up against the ward councillor ... from the people in the community who were not elected and who are now bitter. But we are very happy,” said Joseph.
Community activist Shamiela de Villiers, who was among those who came to court in support of the victim, said the justice system has failed their community once again.
“I do not understand how they can give him bail. Now men in our society will think that it’s okay to do something like this because tomorrow they are going to be free, come out again and do the same thing,” she said.
Cape Times