Religious and political leaders condemn alleged child rape, demand tougher action. Shock and fury rippled through South Africa this week after a disturbing rape allegation involving a pastor and a 13-year-old girl surfaced. A video of the alleged assault circulated widely online and fuelled calls for mob justice.
The 56-year-old man appeared in the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court for a bail bid. In a country with a gender-based-violence (GBV) epidemic, the community, leaders and political parties came out to protest outside court. Build One South Africa (BOSA) said it stood in solidarity with victims and demanded tougher action against sexual offenders.
“BOSA stood in solidarity withrapevictims at the bail hearing for [accused], a case that has shaken our community.” The party condemned the alleged crime and pushed for greater transparency, including making the Register for Sex Offenders public, arguing that repeat offenders pose a serious threat to communities. It also called for harsher punishment for perpetrators of sexual violence. “We call for maximum sentencing for those convicted ofsexual crimes.
[paywall]
Justice must not only be served, but it must also be swift!” Viral rape case triggers fury as suspect remains in custody. The ANC was also present, claiming that its presence was an act of solidarity. “We are here to say that the ANC will not be silent while our children are violated.
We are here to demand that the criminal justice system treats GBV cases with the urgency and seriousness they deserve. We call for; No bail for the accused crimes against children cannot be treated lightly. Maximum sentence upon conviction to send a message to all perpetrators,” said the party.
[/paywall]
All Zim News – Bringing you the latest news and updates.
