Free State social development MEC Mathabo Leeto visited a toddler (3) at Katleho District Hospital in Virginia on Wednesday (15/1) after she suffered abuse and rape from her father.

The case against the accused was postponed to Wednesday (22/1) by the Virginia magistrate’s court after he made his first court appearance on Wednesday (15/1).

“I would like to advise mothers to always keep their babies with them. If they are unable to care for their children, we request that they bring them to the department of social development,” said Leeto.

“We will ensure they are placed in shelters or homes where they will receive proper care. Children are the future of this country; we must always protect them.”

It is alleged the father has taken care of the girl before and he picked up the child from her mother’s place but this time subjected her to abuse.

The accusations made against her father will be strengthened by the toddler’s honest sharing of the incident. “Men must step up and actively combat gender-based violence,” said Leeto. “Not all men are perpetrators, but because of the actions of a few, it now seems that all men are viewed suspiciously.”

Meanwhile, Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae visited a bereaved family in Thaba Nchu on Wednesday (15/1) after their boy (5) was allegedly stabbed to death by a man romantically involved with the boy’s mother.

Ogone Mpuru’s (5) funeral service was conducted in Zone 4 Thaba Nchu on Thursday (16/1). Mpuru was allegedly stabbed to death on Tuesday (7/1) after he was seen with his mother’s partner.

Someone who witnessed what happened explained she heard the cries of Mpuru and saw blood coming out of his neck. The man (64) was arrested and has been charged with murder.

Premier Letsoha-Mathae speaking to Ogone Mpuru’s mother. Photo: Facebook/Free State provincial government

“The killing of women and children in our communities has reached unprecedented heights and all of us must work together to put an end to it,” said Letsoha-Mathae.

“Women must learn to love their children more than they do men. We are victims to the same people who claim to love us. This is a terrible tragedy and I wish you strength,” said Letsoha-Mathae to the mother of Mpuru.

Free State police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli confirmed that investigations into these incidents are ongoing. The suspects are expected to appear in various courts soon.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cg