News

The African National Congress (ANC) is distancing itself away from a 58-year-old man accused of raping a 12 year old in Dobsonville.

A gender-based violence activist has slammed “disgusting” behaviour and “political campaigning” displayed by political parties ahead of the court appearance of a Dobsonville man arrested for rape.

Sexual abuse of children is often carried out by individuals in positions of trust, making it harder for victims to speak out.

Children in vulnerable situations are not symbols, evidence or campaign material, says Teddy Bear Clinic director Dr Shaheda Omar.

A Dobsonville community leader said the man accused of raping a 12-year-old girl in Soweto was a trusted clergyman in the Methodist Church -- highly educated, respected, and relied upon by the community.