According to reports in the media, two other girl children and one young woman have come forward as victims of the Executive Mayor. The Commission thus calls on the South African Police Services (SAPS) to conduct a swift and detailed investigation into these allegations.  The Commission is of the view that if Mayor is found guilty of these crimes, that he be imprisoned and listed as a sexual offender. This will send a strong message that sexual abuse of children will not be tolerated by anyone, particularly those tasked with the protection of children.

It is of particular concern that a political leader, who is tasked to promote and protect children’s rights, is alleged to be violating such rights.

The SAHRC’s Gauteng Provincial Office will initiate an own initiative investigation into the matter with a specific focus on the alleged infringement on the rights of children to be protected from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation as set out in the aforementioned section 28 of the Constitution.

The Commission, like the courts, is extremely concerned with increased cases of child abuse and sexual grooming with more young people gaining access to the internet and social media.

We all within South Africa, have a duty to ensure a safe and enabling environment for our children, free of all forms of abuse. As captured by our Elder Statesman, President Nelson Mandela: “Our children are the rock on which our future will be built, our greatest asset as a nation. They will be the leaders of our country, the creators of our wealth, those who care for and protect our people.”

Ends
Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission

Gail Smith – Spokesperson Tel: 0609883792 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.