13 August 2006
The North West Provincial Government is confident that the exhumation of the
body of Justice Naane today will finally lead to both justice and closure for
his family. The exhumation will assist the police to conduct forensic
investigations to determine the cause of his death.
Justice Naane of Gopane Village near Zeerust died at an initiation school
and was buried there about two months ago, in line with traditional practice.
However, the family wanted his remains to be brought home so that they could
give him a dignified burial. The family was aggrieved that Justice, rather than
voluntarily enlisting in the school, was allegedly abducted and forced into
initiation.
Government wishes to reiterate that it recognises traditional initiation as
part of the culture, customs and tradition of many communities. Government has
no intention to interfere with the running of initiative schools. However,
government has a responsibility to ensure a balance between respect for culture
as well as the need to protect the lives, health and human rights of young
children.
The provincial government is concerned that this once proud traditional
practice has now turned into pain for many young boys and their families.
Government is particularly worried about the commercialisation of this cultural
practice which has given rise to abductions and forced admissions into
initiation schools.
Government believes that enlisting at an initiation school must be a
voluntary exercise, requiring the sanction of parents in the case of
minors.
Enquiries:
Cornelius Tanana Monama
Tel: (018) 387 3456
Cell: 082 578 4063
Issued by: North West Provincial Government
13 August 2006
