“I am extremely angry at what appears to be verifiable incidences of serious sexual misconduct … in circumstances which in and of themselves were inappropriate,” said Winde.

“That it is by someone who has been tasked to protect our youth and our communities, is to me unfathomable. It is a shocking violation of his oath of office and the principles of our constitutional democracy.

“This is the starkest reminder of the pervasiveness of gender-based violence at all levels of our society, and that every single one of us — from president, to premier, from CEO, to father, mother, brother, sister or friend — have a role to play to end it.

“We acknowledge the bravery of the complainants who came forward, who have suffered immense anxiety. It is important that the manner in which these allegations are dealt with does not disempower them.”

Winde initiated an independent investigation after receiving statements from complainants alleging incidents of sexual misconduct. Eighteen people, including Fritz, were interviewed during the probe. Witnesses submitted photographs, emails, videos, text messages and correspondence.

Fritz denied the allegations and answered all questions put to him but the report found his version “fails to substantively address the specific allegations made and is inherently incongruent with the evidence as a whole”.

The complainants have not yet opened criminal cases.

“I will today meet the complainants that confided in me and again offer my support should they elect to pursue criminal charges. It is our view that there is sufficient evidence to warrant a criminal investigation,” said Winde.

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