Tension Soars as South Africans Demand Justice for 8-Year-Old Rape Victim
Thousands of South Africans rallied on Tuesday to support an eight-year-old girl who was allegedly raped at school last year. The rally came after the girl’s mother shared her traumatic story in a podcast and local media, calling for justice after the October 2023 incident. Despite the public outcry, no arrests have been made, though police have identified three suspects, including school staff, and are investigating with high priority.
Over 2,000 people marched through Cape Town, with similar demonstrations held in Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Durban. “I have no trust in our justice system, it has always failed us,” said Janine de Vos, a mother at the Cape Town protest.
South Africa continues to grapple with alarming rates of abuse against women and children. According to United Nations data, one in three women in the country faces physical or sexual violence. In 2023-24, nearly 17,100 child rape cases were reported, but only a small fraction saw justice, with just 449 child rape cases brought to trial.
In a related incident, a primary school teacher was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly raping a 13-year-old student. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube emphasized the need for stronger vetting of school staff against sexual offenders, especially as delays hinder the public release of the national sex offenders register.
The fight for justice continues, as many South Africans demand accountability and action from the authorities.
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