Nationwide protests have erupted in South Africa as the public demands justice for a seven-year-old girl known as “Cwecwe,” who was allegedly sexually abused six months ago.
The case has sparked outrage due to delays in the investigation, leading many to accuse authorities of failing to act swiftly.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has assured the public that a thorough investigation is now underway. He acknowledged the case was first reported to the police on October 16 last year, but prosecutors initially declined to move forward, citing a lack of sufficient evidence. The slow progress led the victim’s mother to go public, pushing authorities to reopen the case.
Investigators have identified three people of interest, but none have been named as suspects. A medical examination did not find foreign DNA, which has posed challenges to the case. Authorities say further DNA testing is being conducted to gather more evidence. The police have faced criticism for mishandling the investigation, as the case has changed hands between multiple officers, leading to inconsistencies in the case file.
The details of the alleged assault came to light when the victim’s mother shared her daughter’s experience in a podcast interview. She described how her child came home acting unusually, complaining of stomach pain and difficulty walking. Eventually, bloodstains were found on her clothing, prompting a medical examination that confirmed the assault. The girl later recalled being told by a school caretaker to clean a classroom, but after that, her memory became unclear. She later remembered a strong burning smell in the room.
The school’s response has added to public frustration. The principal allegedly threatened legal action against those discussing the case. Meanwhile, AfriForum, a right-wing group, has stepped in to support the principal after police requested his DNA sample, which he refused to provide. The group’s private prosecution unit is assisting him in resisting the request.
South Africa has one of the highest rates of sexual violence in the world, with children frequently among the victims. Activists are calling for stronger protections and stricter measures to hold perpetrators accountable. As pressure mounts, authorities insist they are taking the case seriously, but the public remains skeptical, demanding urgent action to ensure justice for Cwecwe.