PRETORIA, South Africa (AP) — A group of demonstrators gathered in the South African capital of Pretoria on Friday to protest against gender-based violence following the alleged rape of a 7-year-old girl, known as Cwecwe to protect her identity. This demonstration is the most recent in a series of protests triggered by the news that the girl was raped at her school last year and the incident was only reported a month later. Previous protests occurred in Cape Town and Matatiele, the location of the alleged rape.
Protesters wore predominantly black attire and carried signs condemning rape and violence against women and children. They are urging the South African government to declare gender-based violence a national crisis and impose harsh penalties on offenders. The girl’s mother, who has spoken out about feeling let down by the justice system, has been vocal in recent weeks.
Miss South Africa Mia le Roux joined the protests and called for stronger government action against gender-based violence. Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster, deputy leader of the political party Build One SA, demanded the government declare a state of emergency and show determination in addressing the issue. She also urged the publication of a sex offender register to protect women and children.
Activist Themba Masango, leader of the organization Not In My Name, called on men to take responsibility and lead the fight against gender-based violence. Recent crime statistics showed a 3% decrease in rape and attempted sexual offenses from October to December compared to the previous year, but reported cases of sexual assault increased during the same period.
The statistics revealed that nearly two-thirds of the 11,803 reported rapes occurred in either the perpetrator’s or victim’s home, with a fifth taking place in public spaces including nightclubs, schools, and universities.
