Note to Editors: Please find attached soundbite, memorandum and pictures (here, here & here) during our memorandum handover at the Newlands East Police Station following the alleged sexual assault of a minor.
Today, The Democratic Alliance Womens Network in KwaZulu-Natal, along with DA Ward 11 Councillor, Allan Peterson, DA KZN Spokesperson for Social Development, Mmabatho Tembe and DA KZN Chairperson, Dean Macpherson, stood with members of the Newlands East community in condemning the alleged horrific violation of a minor (only one-year and 11-month-old) this week.
The DA also handed over a memorandum of demands on behalf of the community in demanding justice for the young child.
This alleged gross violation is a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis of violence against women and children in our country.
It is deeply concerning that, despite serious allegations, no one has been apprehended in connection with this crime. The community’s outrage and loss of trust in our law enforcement agencies are understandable given the circumstances.
South Africa has robust legislation designed to protect women and children, including the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act. However, the apparent failure to promptly act on these allegations and ensure justice is a severe lapse in the enforcement of these laws.
This situation demands immediate attention and accountability.
DAWN, therefor calls on the South African Police Service (SAPS) and all relevant authorities to act swiftly and decisively to investigate these allegations and bring the perpetrator to book. It is imperative that a thorough investigation is conducted and that those responsible, whether through direct action or negligence, are held accountable. Rigorous measures must be put in place to prevent such horrific incidents from occurring in the future.
We urge the community to remain vigilant and to support the victim and her family during this incredibly difficult time. It is through our collective effort and unwavering commitment to justice that we can create a safer environment for our children.
DAWN remains steadfast in its mission to fight for the rights and protection of all women and children in South Africa. We will not rest until justice is served in this case and in every case where the vulnerable are exploited and harmed.
Let us stand together to demand swift justice and to ensure that our laws are not just words on paper, but real protections that safeguard the most vulnerable among us.