Tourism DG Victor Tharage Denounces Allegations of Staff Bullying as Defamatory and Malicious

In a clarion call for integrity and fairness, Tourism Director General Victor Tharage has vigorously disputed allegations of staff bullying, branding them as "demeaning and malicious." His statement comes in the aftermath of a report levied against him, suggesting a toxic work environment for female staff within the department. The contentious report surfaced in the City Press and was subsequently disseminated across News24, placing Tharage at the center of a purported adversity linked to employees’ resignations and a mental health turmoil among women staffers.

Asserting his position, Tharage pointed to the meticulous timing of the article, aligning itself with Women's Day—a period symbolizing the celebration and rights of women in South Africa. He criticized the press piece for lacking substantial evidence, accusing it of distorting facts and fostering a defamatory assault on his character. Despite his comprehensive responses during an interview and in written communication with the media, Tharage emphasized that the article renounced these objective facts in favor of baseless accusations.

In his defense, Tharage refuted claims of dismissive comments allegedly made during a Departmental strategic planning session, citing the audio recording of the meeting as evidence of his innocence. This direct rebuttal challenges the authenticity of the information presented by the media and underscores Tharage's intent to shield himself from personal defamation.

The article in question also alleged an incident involving a senior manager compelled to work from home due to his supposed intimidation tactics. Tharage firmly denied any such occurrences or formal records that support the claim. Moreover, he pointed to regular Security Clearance procedures, disciplinary actions aligned with Public Service Commission findings, and legitimate employee departures as natural departmental functions unjustly equated to bullying.

Victor Tharage meticulously rejected notions of gender-based power abuse, highlighting his firm stance on performance expectations and adherence to protocols outlined by the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). He emphasized that equitable accountability standards are upheld for all senior management members, irrespective of gender, thus challenging the narrative of targeting women.

Acknowledgements of commendable departmental performance were also part of Tharage’s testament, which he specified are in line with routine managerial assessments. He illustrated scrutiny directed at potential irregularities within the department, citing an instance where a senior manager was cautioned against entering an unjust partnership, which eventually undermined a key departmental target.

Additionally, Tharage shed light on ongoing legal and disciplinary actions addressing serious allegations of fruitless expenditure and corruption within the department. He clarified that these actions arose from completed forensic examinations and are currently in the hands of appropriate legal authorities. The transparent application of consequence management across the department serves as a testament to Tharage's commitment to upholding good governance.

Concluding his statement, Tharage affirmed his willingness to confront any formal allegations that might arise through due process. He stands resolute in his dedication to leadership integrity and departmental accountability, setting the record straight on the integrity of the office he upholds.