Admin
11 Sep, 2025
Alleged rape of 8 Soweto boys at gunpoint; are our children safe at school?
Media Statement by Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) notes with deep concern reports that eight boys from Khomani Primary School in Diepkloof, Soweto, were allegedly drugged by a fellow grade 7 learner and subsequently raped at gunpoint by an adult. We are shocked, outraged and devastated by this heinous act. This tragedy highlights how sexual violence against learners is escalating; this is an unacceptable and recurring crisis in South Africa’s education system. This case is a painful reminder that boys too are vulnerable to sexual abuse, and that our fight against gender-based violence must recognise the suffering of all children. It is deeply disturbing that a learner was seemingly coerced into participating in this appalling act, which speaks to the urgent need for greater vigilance, education, and support as no child should ever suffer such violence in or near a school. UDEMWO welcomes the quick arrest of a suspect in this matter and calls for a thorough, transparent investigation to make sure every detail is uncovered. The perpetrator must face the full might of the law, and no leniency should be shown for crimes of such brutality against children. We further call on authorities to strengthen protective measures in schools, to prioritise psychosocial support for survivors and to ensure that communities are mobilised to create safe and nurturing environments for all learners. Anything less than justice for the victims would send a dangerous message that our children’s lives and dignity are negotiable.
Admin
29 Mar, 2025
UDM Eastern Cape calls for justice for Cwecwe and accountability in schools
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape is outraged by the tragic case of Cwecwe, a seven-year-old child from Matatiele, who was allegedly raped while under the care of Bergview College. It is deeply concerning that, despite medical confirmation of the assault, no arrests have been made. We extend our full support to Cwecwe and her family during this traumatic time. We commend the Department of Education for its decision to deregister Bergview College, but this is only the first step. The failure to protect a child within an educational institution reflects a deeper crisis in our schools. We demand urgent action from the South African Police Service (SAPS) to expedite the investigation and ensure that justice is served. Law enforcement agencies cannot continue to fail victims, especially vulnerable children. We also call on Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube to strengthen safety measures in schools to prevent such incidents from ever happening again. Furthermore, the UDM in the Eastern Cape urges government to: 1. Fast-track the arrest and prosecute those responsible for this heinous crime. 2. Review safety policies in schools to ensure that all children are protected while in the care of educational institutions. 3. Provide psychological and social support to Cwecwe and her family to help them recover from this traumatic ordeal. We will not stand by while the most vulnerable in our society suffer due to negligence and lack of accountability. The UDM will closely monitor this case and push for justice to prevail. #JusticeForCwecwe
