ANC calls for a permanent solution on the death of children during the initiation

Issued by the Office of the ANC EC Provincial Secretary

The recent reports about the number of hospitalized and death of initiates in the OR Tambo and Chris Hani regions leaves us with shock. The ANC in the Eastern Cape is calling for a permanent solution on the death of children during the initiation period. We cant continue like this. This is a custom meant to appreciate our culture, why we continue losing lives? It must come to an end.

We noted and welcomed more inteventions made by government since it started, but this tragedy continues to happen. We urge our government and all those involved in the administration of this custom to re-look at the matter and engage further communities on the administration of the custom, innocent children can not die helplessly.

This is not a lawless country, those who act against the law of initiation must be charged and arrested. The visibility of police during this time is critical in all areas during the initiation season. Law abiding members of communities must stand up and help fight against illegal initiation. Communities must call police for any suspected individuals who could be involved in this barbaric act.

We commend those who acted fast to save the lives of those initiates who managed to get assistance in the nearby hospitals. We salute the department of health to make doctors available for rapid response. We continue to have confidence in the leadership provided by our provincial government on the matter.

END

This statement must be attributed to Cde Oscar Mabuyane, the ANC EC Provincial Secretary.