Cape Town - Cape Town teacher Kelly Manus’s allegations of sexual harassment have led to community protests and police involvement, as she pursues legal action against her ex colleague at Symphony High School in Belhar.
The case has gained significant attention since Manus took to social media last week to share her experience of sexual harassment.
Several community members and political parties held placards reading “Stop harassing teachers and kids” and “Justice for Kelly” as they picketed in front of the school on Friday.
A memorandum was handed over to members of the school, which demanded a fair and independent investigation.
Vanessa le Roux of Parents for Equal Education, who has been speaking on behalf of Manus, said they now demand answers from police as to why the case was not registered as sexual harassment, but that of crimen injuria.
“The case was opened, however, we are engaging with police because we are not satisfied with the fact that it was not sexual harassment, the docket is going to the state prosecutor where it might be changed.
“We are seeking legal advice.”
Police spokesperson, FC van Wyk, confirmed the case.
“Be advised that the mentioned case number is a crimen injuria case registered at Belhar SAPS for investigation on January 17, 2025.
“According to the 26-year-old complainant, the incident happened on November 24, 2023, at a high school in Belhar.
“No arrest yet, investigations continue.”
Manus has since been appointed a contract post at a Cape Town school and is unable to comment further in the media.
Last week, the Western Cape Education Department disputed claims by Manus that they did not assist with the case of sexual harassment.
Manus, a TikTok content creator who taught at Symphony High School for three years, said the male teacher, who is the husband of the principal, allegedly slapped her on the bottom in November 2023.
She further stated that her substitute post was to be converted to a permanent position following communication by the former principal, but that she found herself unemployed by December 2024.
She said the male teacher was cautioned to stay out of her way and that the matter was finalised with a case registered with the Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) regarding her teaching post.