Note to Editors: Please note Sakhile Mngadi, MPL sound bite in English and isiZulu
The DA in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) welcomes progress regarding investigations into the brutal assault of a matric learner. This after we escalated the matter to the Chairperson of the Police Portfolio Committee in Parliament, Ian Cameron and after multiple follow-ups with the province’s Department of Education (DoE).
The incident, which took place at Mandla Mthethwa School of Excellence in Ndumo, allegedly involved the school principal and three SAPS officers, one of whom appeared to be intoxicated.
The DA can confirm that the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and KZN’s DoE have all officially opened investigations into the incident. These steps are crucial in ensuring that those allegedly responsible for this heinous act are held accountable and that justice is served.
In addition to pushing for accountability, the DA has taken proactive steps to support the affected learner.
We have recommended that he receive professional counselling to help him recover from the severe emotional and psychological trauma caused by the assault. Furthermore, we have successfully secured him a place at an exam centre, allowing him to complete his matric and move forward with his future.
The DA will continue to monitor investigations closely and will engage with all relevant authorities to ensure that they are conducted thoroughly, and that justice is not delayed. Our schools must be places of safety and learning, not fear and violence.
We remain committed to fighting for the rights and protection of learners in KZN and will not rest until this matter is resolved.