Thousands march to WCED calling for Justice for CweCwe

Thousands of protestors in Cape Town joined a nationwide march calling for Justice for CweCwe. The learner from Bergview College in the Eastern Cape, was reportedly raped, in October 2024, with three individuals, including the school principal, identified as suspects.

Demonstrators handed over a memorandum to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).

MEC David Maynier, who accepted the memorandum, said he will refer it to the relevant national departments for action.

‘’We are deeply disturbed by the incident that has been reported from the Eastern Cape. We are aware that the Eastern Cape Department of Education, as well as SAPS, are investigating the incident.  We urge them to ensure that the perpetrator is found and faces the full might of the law. Our children must be able to learn in a safe environment when at school. ‘’

PHOTO: Shaneca Cupido

‘’While this incident has occurred in another province, I urge anyone who becomes aware of an incident of abuse or assault in a Western Cape school to report this immediately to SAPS and to our Safe Schools hotline on 0800 45 46 47 toll free for assistance,’’ added Maynier.

With the aim of ensuring safety during the protest, SAPS are guiding protesters throughout the #JusticeForCwecwe march.
Protesters are making their way to the WCED.@Bushradio pic.twitter.com/kSCu658pMM

— Bushradionews (@Bushradionews) April 1, 2025

Speaking on Bush Radio’s Everyday People programme on Tuesday, Thobeka Msengana, MD of The Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation, called for justice to be served

‘’The Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation (UMF) is deeply saddened and outraged by the heinous crime committed against an innocent child… No child should ever have to endure such unimaginable trauma, and no family should be left in the dark, fighting for justice alone.’’

‘’It is unacceptable that, nearly six months after this horrific incident, no one has been held accountable. Justice delayed is justice denied. We call on law enforcement authorities to act with urgency and diligence in ensuring that the perpetrator is identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. It is appalling that a case of this gravity has not yet resulted in an arrest despite clear leads and critical evidence being available. We demand answers, and more importantly, we demand justice for Cwecwe,’’ she added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George