Community still in mourning for ‘murdered’ five-year-old
The community was still affected by news of the abuse and murder.
A COMMUNITY is still in mourning over the senseless murder of the five-year-old boy from Chrisville, South of Johannesburg on August 31.
Member of Parliament and Transport Shadow Minister Manny de Freitas said there were many speculations and discontent surrounding the murder.
He said it was, however, evident that certain decisions by the family members shed light onto the reality of violence and abuse towards women and children. “It appears that it is exactly this kind of violence that has become more prevalent of late.
Also Read: Man accused of killing five year old remains behind bars
“The memorial service was a deeply emotional one where everyone tried to understand why and how any person would abuse an innocent child to death.”
De Freitas added that this particular case showed that much of the violence was often inflicted by family members and in this case, it was the father of the child who continuously abused his son.
“To add insult to injury, it is alleged the child’s grandparents protected the child’s father despite being fully aware of the abuse since the little boy’s birth. The child’s aunt had previously laid charges against the father of the child but, inexplicably, later withdrew the charges. Protection of the abuser by family members of the abuser creates an environment that encourages the continued abuse of children. Withdrawing charges does no one any favours,” said de Freitas.
He lauded DA Ward 55 Clr Rashieda Landis who took responsibility and personally ensured the child was given a dignified memorial service and funeral on September 9.
Also Read: Five year old dies after alleged parental abuse
“We will watch closely with great interest when this matter returns to court at the beginning of October.”
The father of the little boy, a 35-year-old man, remains behind bars awaiting his next court appearance on Wednesday, October 4.
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