Central SA
EFF North West will engage with families after rapes in Kanana─── 09:49 Wed, 10 May 2023
The EFF in North West has indicated that they will send a team from their gender-based violence desk to the Kanana township near Orkney on Wednesday.
The EFF team will engage with the families of the rape victims of a ward councillor in the area.
Speaking to OFM News, spokesperson Fanon Moema said volunteers and activists with expertise in social issues, will make assessments as they are visiting the families, and will then make recommendations for further assistance.
The EFF says it is concerned at the growing number of gender-based violence in Kanana.
Moema says deputy provincial chairperson, Rose Bogatsu, will also be in the area for moral support and to ensure that victims know that they don't have to be afraid of being victimised.
The National Prosecuting Authority's North West spokesperson, Henry Mamothame, said the 43-year-old suspect will remain in police custody until his next appearance in court.
Mamothame confirmed that councillor Tebogo Sepale is facing eleven provisional charges, including two of statutory rape.
ANC North West provincial spokesperson, Tumelo Maruping, says the party has suspended Sepale with immediate effect.
"We are arranging to get counselling for all affected families, including the whistle-blowers with health professionals so that they can relate their emotions and experiences on a safer platform," said Moema.
