Community reacts to conflicting reports on late councillor
-= George C. April, Editor
CAPE COAST NEWS (CCN)
HOPEFIELD: – Residents across the West Coast are reacting with concern following conflicting reports regarding the late Saldanha Bay Municipality councillor Bjorn Witbooi.
After CCN published a story on CCN claims about an alleged March 2025 council incident involving Witbooi and VF Plus councillor Jaco Kotze, Coenie, a correspondent from Saldanhabaai Nuus, sent an inbox message to CCN on Facebook, providing Case No. 142/5/25, reportedly linked to the incident.
However, Captain Tania Helfrich from the West Coast District Police Communication Unit confirmed in response to a CCN media inquiry that no case has been registered against Mr Witbooi.
The alleged March incident reportedly involved Witbooi splashing water toward Kotze during a heated council meeting. According to witnesses, no one was injured, and the event did not result in any official complaint or criminal action.
Community leaders respond
GOOD party Councillor Thyrone Williams from St Helena Bay, who served alongside Witbooi, condemned the circulation of the reports following Witbooi’s death.
“That incident happened months ago,” Williams told CCN. “Publishing it now, without context, is unfair to his family and to everyone who respected him.”
Residents on social media echoed similar sentiments. Nicola Viljoen commented: “Throwing water is not polite, but comparing it to a violent assault is absurd. Only egos were hurt.”
Williams publicly clarified: “Nicola, it was just water. No one was seriously harmed.”
Defamation after death – A Community Lesson
Legal and media experts note that defamation can affect a person’s legacy and their family even after death. Spreading unverified information can cause harm and foster mistrust in small communities.
CCN Statement
“Journalists and social media users must verify facts before sharing stories, especially those involving people who cannot respond,” said the CCN editorial team. “Responsible reporting preserves truth and dignity, protects families, and maintains community trust.”
Editor’s Note
At Cape Coast News, we uphold the principle that journalism must serve the truth and the dignity of our communities. We are committed to fairness, accuracy, and giving voice to those who cannot defend themselves. West Coast resident’s express relief that police have confirmed no case was registered against the late Councillor Bjorn Witbooi. His legacy of community service continues to be remembered with respect.
Picture – “West Coast residents react to conflicting reports about the late Councillor Bjorn Witbooi. While a case number was shared by a media source, the police confirm no official case was registered. His legacy of community service continues to be remembered with respect.”
