Public Outrage Grows as Petition for Justice in CweCwe Rape Case Gains Momentum

A petition demanding justice for seven-year-old CweCwe, who was allegedly raped at Bergville College in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, has drawn overwhelming support on social media.

What began with just over 4,400 signatures on Thursday surged to 673,564 by Monday morning, reflecting nationwide outrage over the incident.

School’s Response Under Fire

The attack reportedly occurred in October 2024 while CweCwe was waiting for transport from the private school. The case has gained significant attention, especially after the child’s mother, herself a survivor of sexual violence, spoke out in a heartbreaking interview. She accused the school of failing to assist in identifying the perpetrator or supporting the investigation. Instead, she claimed, the school handed her a transfer letter without her family requesting it.

The Eastern Cape Department of Education responded by deregistering Bergville College, citing the principal’s refusal to cooperate with law enforcement. Education MEC Fundile Gade confirmed the decision on Friday, giving the school 24 hours to respond.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube also weighed in, stating she had been in contact with provincial officials and was demanding accountability. “This is a deeply distressing case. We must ensure the family gets the justice they deserve,” she said in a social media post.

Pressure on Law Enforcement

With public anger intensifying, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has been briefed on the case, and authorities are under mounting pressure to expedite their investigation. Critics have accused the school of attempting to cover up the incident, further fueling demands for swift action.

Political parties and advocacy groups have also stepped in. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) wrote to the chairperson of the portfolio committee for police, requesting a briefing on the case at their next meeting on April 2. Meanwhile, the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s Youth League, alongside Justice for SA and the MK Students’ Movement, announced plans for a nationwide shutdown in support of #JusticeforCweCwe.

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Growing Support for Justice

The campaign has drawn backing from a wide range of supporters, including grassroots activists and celebrities. The Act Now Foundation, founded by activist Tebogo Lerole, has joined forces with the community to demand justice.

Protests have also erupted across the country. The MK Women’s League staged a picket on Jules Street in Jeppe, Johannesburg, while Braamfontein residents took to the streets, demanding accountability. A march in Cape Town is scheduled for Tuesday, further amplifying calls for action.

As the movement gains traction, the pressure on authorities continues to escalate, with the nation watching closely for justice in this heartbreaking case.

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Sourced:Times Live