Twelve-year-old rape survivor testifies in court
The hearing of the rape case of a minor resumed in the Lydenburg Regional Court on Thursday, with the 12-year-old survivor narrating the sequence of events.
LYDENBURG – The hearing of the rape case of a minor resumed in the Lydenburg Regional Court on Thursday, with the 12-year-old survivor narrating the sequence of events.
Three years ago she was raped by her father, who was then let off without any explanation to the mother.
Speaking outside the court, because proceedings were closed due to the appearance of a minor, the mother said that it broke her heart to know she could not do anything to change what happened.
According to the mother the abuse began when she was six years old and continued until when she was eight.
She said her daughter seemed more confident and courageous in court. “I know she’s not as strong as she appears to be.
“She had no problem introducing herself and talking about her education. She answered all the questions she was asked,” she explained.
“My daughter hesitated a bit when describing the incidents but she managed to tell her story.”
The child was raped several times in her bedroom without the mother’s knowledge.
“My husband raped my daughter for more than a year and I was not aware of it,I don’t know if I will be able to forgive myself,” she said.
After questioning, the young survivor walked down the passageway with a brave face.
The mother is unemployed and is battling to make ends meet after being abandoned by her husband.
“I have three children and it’s difficult to maintain them because I do not have a job.” The case has been postponed to October 24.
