A US congressional committee is pushing for Prince Andrew to testify formally about his connections to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The development, which could force the disgraced royal to answer questions under oath, is being closely watched by the world.
PRINCE ANDREW AND THE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
The House Oversight Committee is investigating the handling of the Epstein prosecution and his extensive sex-trafficking network.
Democratic Congressman Stephen Lynch is the committee’s ranking member, according to the BBC.
He stated publicly that they are “extremely interested” in hearing from Prince Andrew regarding his involvement.
He confirmed he was “sure” the committee would issue an official invitation for the Duke of York to provide testimony.
PRINCE ANDREW RELINQUISHES HIS TITLES
This move increases the international pressure on Prince Andrew, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing, according to Fox News.
The prince already faced immense global scrutiny, which led him to relinquish his royal titles and step back from public duties.
For South Africans following the saga, this represents a significant escalation, demonstrating the far-reaching pursuit of justice for Epstein’s victims.
VIRGINIA’S MEMOIR
The committee’s interest follows the publication of a posthumous memoir by Virginia Giuffre.
She is a key accuser who alleged she was trafficked to the royal while she was a minor, according to the Daily Mail.
Though Prince Andrew settled a civil lawsuit with Giuffre in 2022 for an undisclosed sum, without admitting liability, her detailed allegations continue to fuel investigations.
PRINCE ANDREW AND ACCOUNTABILITY
The potential testimony of the Prince before Congress underscores the international nature of the Epstein scandal. It’s an ongoing quest for accountability.
As the committee continues its work, the world, including observers in South Africa, awaits to see if the Duke of York will comply with the request.
Once he does, what new information might emerge about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein?