A DA Youth leader and former City employee has appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate's Court for allegedly raping and impregnating his 13-year-old relative.
A group of people in DA T-shirts protested outside court as he made a brief appearance, reports the Cape Times.
He cannot be named to protect the identity of the teenager.
The accused had been employed by the City of Cape Town until July, said spokesperson Luthando Tyalibongo.
“We are extremely saddened to hear that a 13-year-old child was allegedly raped by a family member who should be her protector,” he said.
The accused has been a member of the DA since last year and worked for the City as a community liaison officer.
His appearance comes as South Africans observe the 16 Days of Activism For No Violence Against Women and Children campaign.
ANC ward councillor Khaya Yozi said he had been alerted to the alleged incident by community members.
He said the teen was five months pregnant, and residents were angry.
DA metro regional chairperson Grant Twigg confirmed that the accused was a member of the party and said allegations that the DA would support his bid for bail were false.
“The leadership of the DA will gather the necessary information and will decide on appropriate steps moving forward,” he said.
He said the DA had pledged to not support him, and respected the criminal justice system.
“All allegations of rape must be taken seriously and the NPA and law enforcement authorities must take this case seriously, especially while we mark 16 Days of Activism,” he said.