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The Free State MEC for Social Development, Mathabo Hlalele, has welcomed the sentence handed down in the case of S v Vuyisane Makeleni, describing it as a step towards righteousness and justice for the young victim and her family.
The accused was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to the rape of a three-year-old child at a crèche in Phase 6. The MEC strongly condemned the brutal and inhumane act committed against the child, stating that such crimes have no place in society and must be met with the full might of the law.
“This is a deeply disturbing and heartbreaking incident. The violation of a child in a place that is meant to provide care and safety is unacceptable. We strongly condemn this act of brutality and call for continued vigilance in protecting our children,” said MEC Hlalele.
The MEC further expressed concern over the operation of unregistered early childhood development centres, noting that the crèche involved in the incident was found to be operating illegally. She emphasised the importance of ensuring that all facilities caring for children comply with legal and safety norms and standards.
The Free State Department of Social Development has committed to providing ongoing psychosocial support to the victim and her family. This includes trauma counselling, emotional support, and family intervention services to assist them in coping with the aftermath of the incident.
“We pledge our full support to the child and her family during this difficult time. Our social workers will continue to provide psychosocial support and family counselling to ensure healing and recovery,” the MEC added.
MEC Hlalele also called on communities to report all forms of abuse and to work together with authorities to safeguard children and other vulnerable groups. The Department remains committed to strengthening child protection services and ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence and crimes against children are held accountable.
