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Gwarube Calls for Justice in Cwecwe Case, Pushes for Stricter School Safety Measures
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube has taken a firm stance on the case of seven-year-old Cwecwe, who was allegedly raped at Bergview College in Matatiele, Eastern Cape. Speaking at the Uyinene Mrwetyana Commemorative Lecture at Kingswood High School, she condemned the continued violence against children in schools and called for urgent action to bring those responsible to justice.
“This week has been heavy for most, where we have been made aware of children who have been sexually assaulted in their schools—by adults who are meant to protect them,” Gwarube said, referencing Cwecwe’s case. “This child was brutally violated, and her perpetrators are yet to be found and prosecuted.”
The attack reportedly took place in October last year while Cwecwe was waiting for transport on school grounds. Despite the crime being reported, no arrests have been made. However, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu confirmed that investigators have identified three suspects, including the school principal.
“All outstanding statements have since been obtained by the investigating officer. DNA tests have also been conducted. The senior State Prosecutor will be consulted in the coming week, and the family will be provided feedback on the matter,” Mchunu stated.
Gwarube stressed that schools must be safe spaces for children and that it is unacceptable for any child to face such brutality in an educational setting. She called for stronger background checks on individuals working with children, vowing to take legislative action alongside Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi to strengthen vetting procedures.
“Justice must be served. Yes. But more must be done to rid our schools of sexual predators,” she said. “We cannot simply be angry; we must let that anger fuel us into action.”
While acknowledging the government’s role in addressing the issue, Gwarube emphasized that eradicating violence against women and children requires collective societal effort.
“It has to be a whole-of-society approach. But what we will not do is be quiet. We will stare this scourge down,” she said. “We must rid our country of those who believe they can outnumber us, victimise us, and kill us.”
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Sourced:IOL
