JOHANNESBURG - The African National Congress (ANC) is distancing itself from a 58-year-old man accused of raping a 12-year-old girl in Dobsonville.
The man appeared at the Roodepoort magistrate’s court on Tuesday.
The alleged sexual assault is said to have taken place over the Easter weekend.
Dobsonville community members gathered in large numbers to protest in support of the victim’s family.
The man is a minister at a church in Dobsonville, as well as a member of the ANC, where he has allegedly served in executive structures.
It is believed the man gained the trust of the community after it had gone for days without electricity.
Community leader Mandla Nyaqela said the suspect had electricity and Wi-Fi at his home, making it easier for children to do their homework and school research there.
"This is disappointing and painful, and that is why we are here to support the family," says Nyaqula.
Political parties present at the protest have accused the ANC of protecting the suspect.
Former Community Safety MEC Faith Mazibuko has rejected the claims.
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"As the organisation, we have taken steps against him," she said.
"We are going as far as to ensure that he is removed as a member of the ANC," she added.
The case has been postponed to 22 April for further investigation.