UNITED DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT

MEDIA RELEASE

A BIG NO, TO SILENCE ON RAPE AND SEXUAL ABUSE

MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY KHANGELANI DUMANI
UNITED DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT YOUTH VANGUARD

Philosophers claim that there is a direct link between crime and poverty. In South Africa and perhaps other countries as well, the existence of "Robin Hoods" of the concrete jungle has been defined and justified as being a socio-economical problem. But are rape and abuse crimes that can be classified as socio-economical problems?

The increase in rape and abuse of both young and old, boys and girls in South Africa raises a serious concern on how we as citizens of this country perceive each other and the amount of respect that we have for each other.

Most cases of rape and abuse are not reported as most of them take place in our own backyards. In certain instances, they are not reported because of a lack in confidence on the police and the justice system.

The United Democratic Movement Youth Vanguard is very much concerned about this barbaric and animal type behaviour. It is the view of the UDMYV that cases such as the recent Magaliesburg tragedy (Sowetan-31 July 2001) could have been avoided had there been a visible presence of police in areas where school children walk long distances to and from school.

The UDMYV is making a strong appeal to society and victims to report rape and abuse cases and to the Minister of Safety and Security, Mr Steve Tshwete, to expeditiously devise and implement strategies that will look into the safety of people travelling between towns and cities and areas where they live. The criminal justice system and the Director of Public Prosecution should be encouraged to apply stringent measures against perpetrators of rape and abuse.

Enquiries:
Khangelani Dumani
National Youth Organiser
083 759 6637

Pretoria
 14 August 2001