Anger and Protests Surge for Justice in #JusticeForCwecwe Case

A tragic incident involving a 7-year-old girl, known as Cwecwe, has sparked outrage across South Africa and beyond. The young girl was allegedly raped on school premises in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, in October 2024. The case has drawn widespread attention on social media, with the hashtag #JusticeForCwecwe gaining momentum globally.

The incident occurred while Cwecwe was waiting for her transport home at a private school. She was attacked by men suspected to be staff members. Initially, the school driver, caretaker, and principal were identified as prime suspects. However, the driver and caretaker were cleared after cooperating with the investigation. Suspicion now centers on the school’s principal, Jaco Pieterse, who has refused to provide a DNA sample, further fueling public anger.

The case gained even more traction after Cwecwe’s mother shared her story in a podcast. She revealed her own history as a victim of sexual violence and criticized the school for mishandling the situation. Instead of aiding the investigation, the school issued the family a transfer letter, which they had not requested. This lack of support has intensified calls for accountability.

In response to the revelations, the Eastern Cape Department of Education deregistered the school, located in the Alfred Nzo West education district. Education MEC Fundile Gade announced the decision on March 28, citing the principal’s lack of cooperation with law enforcement. The school was given 24 hours to respond to the department’s actions.

The public outcry has been immense. A petition demanding justice for Cwecwe has garnered over 6 million signatures, up from just 4,426 on Thursday. Celebrities, political parties, and citizens have rallied both online and offline to support the cause. Prominent figures like DJ Zinhle have amplified the campaign, drawing international attention.

The Jacob Zuma-led uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has also joined the movement. Its Youth League, in collaboration with Justice for SA and the uMkhonto weSizwe Students’ Movement, announced plans for a nationwide shutdown in solidarity with #JusticeForCwecwe.

South African Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have assured the public that the case is being handled with the utmost seriousness. As the movement continues to grow, the demand for justice for Cwecwe remains unwavering.

This incident highlights similar cases in Kenya, as reported by UNICEF on 10 October 2024, indicating that more than 370 million girls and women worldwide, or 1 in 8, experienced rape or sexual assault before the age of 18.

By Grace Githinji