“We recognize the pain and anguish experienced by the community, especially in light of previous incidents involving the abuse of minors in the province,” the Church leaders said in their statement dated March 31.
Reports indicate that the minor who was left in the care of the school’s security guard, the driver, and the principal was raped on 14 October 2024 and reported the abuse two days later.
Angry protesters in the Johannesburg CBD reportedly joined the nationwide shutdown and waited to hand over their memorandum of demands concerning the case on Tuesday, April 1.
In their statement, SACC members express concern over delays in the investigation, noting that the school’s principal has yet to submit DNA samples for testing. They lament that, despite the security guard and driver having already provided their samples, this delay could further hinder the progress of the case.
The Church leaders regret that incidents of violence and abuse against minors remain of grave concern in the province and across the country, with “many cases often going unreported or unresolved, leaving countless children traumatized, vulnerable, and without justice.”
“We have also observed the rest of the country expressing their sadness, disappointment, and outrage at these reports, sparking nationwide protests as communities call for justice for this little girl,” they say.
Reflecting on the book of St. Mark, the church leaders emphasize the need for the protection and care of children as the primary teachings that Christians should embrace. They say, “We are compelled by our faith to stand resolutely against any form of harm or violence inflicted on children.”
SACC members also cite the country’s constitution which they say guarantees that “every child has the right to a safe education, free from any form of abuse or mistreatment.”
“It is deeply concerning that a place intended for learning and growth has become associated with such an incident. It is our firm belief that anyone found responsible for harming a child should not be allowed to work in educational or childcare environments,” they say.
The church leaders urge the school’s administration and the provincial Department of Basic Education to work transparently and collaboratively with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the matter is investigated thoroughly and without delay.
