News

South African National Parks (SANParks), Chief Executive Officer, Mr Fundisile Mketeni will take special leave from his work engagements following assault and sexual assault complaints laid against him on Friday, 7 May 2021 in Skukuza, Kruger National Park.

SANParks Board Chairperson, Ms Joanne Yawitch said in line with SANParks’ commitment to ethical conduct and the seriousness of the allegations, Mr Mketeni has requested to take special leave until such time that this matter has been resolved and the law has taken its course.

Mr Mketeni appeared in court on Monday, 11 May 2021 together with three other individuals on similar charges (two males employed by SANParks and a female who is not a SANParks employee).

“The Board of SANParks views the allegations made in an extremely serious light and will allow the court proceedings to take their course and reach conclusions on the allegations. The Board will however investigate whether the circumstances surrounding the allegations led to any improper or illegal conduct which may affect the employment relationship,” concludes Yawitch.

Dr Luthando Dziba, the Managing Executive: Conservation Services has been appointed as Acting CEO.

Issued By

South African National Parks (SANParks)
Corporate Communications: Tel: 012 426 5170

Media Enquiries

Reynold “Rey” Thakhuli: SANParks Acting Head of Communications Tel: 012 426 5203 cell: 073 373 4999 or email: [email protected]

Ike Phaahla: Kruger National Park, General Manager: Communications and Marketing Tel: 013 735 4000 cell:083 673 6974 or email: [email protected]

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