Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement

It is with profound sadness that the United Democratic Movement (UDM) extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and communities affected by the tragic accident in Carletonville on Wednesday morning. The accident claimed the lives of eleven children and the driver of a minibus taxi transporting them to school. We are deeply grieved to learn that a single family lost four children in this horrific incident.

The UDM stands in solidarity with the grieving families and wishes a speedy recovery to those children who were injured and are receiving treatment. The loss of young lives, filled with potential and promise, is a blow to the nation. We echo the sentiments of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi in mourning this tragic loss and offering support to the affected families.

We also support the call for stringent checks on the integrity and condition of scholar transport vehicles. The safety of our children must be paramount, and we must work collectively to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.

In these difficult times, let us come together as a community to offer support, comfort, and solidarity to those who have lost loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.