20 June 2006
It is with shock and sadness that Premier Dipuo Peters learnt about the
tragic ordeal of a toddler who lost her life in an inhumane and brutal way.
Premier wishes to express her sincere and heartfelt condolences to the
bereaved family and further assure them that the police would leave no stone
unturned in apprehending those responsible for this hideous and gruesome
crime.
Premier Peters, however, wish to appeal to all parents and guardians to
ensure that they are always aware about their childrenâs whereabouts throughout
the day and should not leave their children unattended by an adult. It is the
responsibility of parents to ensure that the safety and care of their children
is of paramount importance to them.
Secondly, members of the community should always exercise extra vigilance
and alertness in the care of children as they are helpless. Communities should
rally together and revive the spirit of UBUNTU, which allowed parents to leave
their children with their neighbours when engaged. This spirit instils in all
of us as human beings and parents an apparent and heartfelt sense of community
belonging which would assist government in curbing such incidents and advance
co-existence and harmony.
Our communities should vigorously join hands with government in opposing
violence against women and children. As the people of the Northern Cape we
should condemn these incidents which seem to define the image of our
province.
It is unacceptable that children should be victims of such cruel crimes when
they are harmless and defenceless. As a community we should shame ourselves for
failing to protect such vulnerable and innocent souls.
Enquiries:
Zodwa Thebeyapelo
Cell: 083 255 8849
Issued by: Office of the Premier, Northern Cape Provincial Government
20 June 2006
