Swellendam resident Leigh Johnson was recently credited by the ANC as one of two whistleblowers who, according to the party, had uncovered tender fraud at Swellendam Municipality. The ANC further claimed that Johnson had been victimised because of this.
ANC MPL Khalid Sayed told the Provincial Legislature on August 14 that Johnson had been victimised because he was a whistleblower.
“In the DA-led Swellendam Municipality, two brave individuals – one inside the municipality, one outside – uncovered a web of tender fraud: Leigh Johnson and Noel Goliath,” Sayed said.
Later, MP David Bryant denied claims that the DA had targeted certain whistleblowers, stating that “protection for whistleblowers does not mean immunity from accountability, especially where there is evidence of wrongdoing.”
Johnson has since alleged that he was assaulted, that his house was set alight, and that several other acts of aggression were committed against him.
What was not raised in the legislature, however, is that prior to these incidents Johnson was involved in a separate situation at his house in Stasie Street.
A short video clip — roughly 30 seconds long — was circulated on social media, sparking outrage in the community. On [date], the full video emerged, leading to further debate.
At this stage it remains unclear whether the attacks against Johnson were linked to his role as an alleged whistleblower, or whether they may be connected to the content of the video.
News62 cannot independently verify the claims made and publishes this report in the interest of balanced coverage. Readers are encouraged to review the available information and draw their own conclusions.
