Velani of Mpengzi Street Thembalethu was sentenced to life in prison by Magistrate Anna on 26 November in the Thembalethu Regional Court.
The mother of the victim feels that justice has been served by the life sentence. She feels that she will never be able to cope as she will always be known as the mother of the child that was raped. She expressed her gratitude to the social workers that are always there for both her and her daughter. Sylvia Ndzimba of the ANC Woman's League says it's gratifying to know that the community action led by the League had the necessary impact on the outcome of the case.
Mzwandile Gincana, ANC councillor for ward 10 said that this is one of the few life sentences that have been passed in George. "I hope the message is clear, the community will not tolerate this type of behaviour any longer. The community of Thembalethu has had enough."
Magistrate Anna said that Velani only pleaded guilty once he realised that the DNA results conclusively identified him as the person that committed the rape. "Velani has previously been convicted under the Sexual Offences Act and for drug and theft related offences." The rape took place 10 November 2012 when the victim was forced into a toilet at Tyolora Primary School. She was with a group of friends on the school grounds when Velani, unknown to her, said her mother was looking for. As she was leaving to go home he forced her into the toilet where the crime took place.
ANC Woman's League members showing solidarity for the victim. From left: Sylvia Ndzimba, Noluthando Ngqwala, Nomangbesi Otola, Emmie Noko, Thembisa Gqabantshi and 4 year-old Asemahle Nomi. Photo: Myron Rabinowitz
ARTICLE: MYRON RABINOWITZ
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