CEO accused of workplace sexual harassment speaks out: 'It's time I tell my side of the story'
Mining Qualifications Authority's CFO has accused CEO Thabo Mashongoane of kissing her without consent after a work meeting.
Picture: Pexels.com
Thabo Shole-Mashao, standing in for John Perlman on 702 Afternoon Drive, interviews CEO of the Mining Qualifications Authority Thabo Mashongoane.
Listen below.
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) is currently under serious scrutiny due to allegations of sexual misconduct and a toxic work environment linked to its CEO, Thabo Mashongoane.
The Chief Financial Officer has accused Mashongoane of kissing her without consent after a work meeting at a Johannesburg restaurant in August of last year, prompting her to file a sexual harassment complaint.
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Additionally, she submitted a second grievance in June 2024, alleging that Mashongoane was making her work environment unbearable through acts of victimisation in retaliation to her complaint.
Mashongoane has remained silent regarding these serious allegations...until now.
"It has been a challenging time and I appreciate the chance to share the side of my story."
- Thabo Mashongoane, CEO – Mining Qualifications Authority
Mashongoane characterises the claims initially reported in City Press as 'false' and 'harmful' to him.
He further expresses that these allegations are unfounded and severely detrimental to his professional and personal reputation.
"The board has always acted with professionalism and integrity and to suggest otherwise without evidence is completely false."
- Thabo Mashongoane, CEO – Mining Qualifications Authority
Mashongoane insists MQA has taken decisive steps to hold individuals accountable.
According to him, upon anticipated disciplinary action, some individuals resorted to fabricating 'false claims' to 'divert attention' and 'damage reputations.'
He adds that these harassment allegations are part of that strategy.
He states that he is deeply committed to combating gender-based violence and promoting gender equality, and describes these allegations as profoundly painful.
"A baseless plot to tarnish my name."
- Thabo Mashongoane, CEO – Mining Qualifications Authority
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.