Rukizu bodies, PTMA condemn alleged child abuse

Rukizu Colony, Pfutsero town, and Pfutsero Town Mothers’ Association have expressed anguish over the alleged abuse of a minor by a foster guardian, a resident of Rukizu Colony.
Rukizu Colony chairman Shevohu Khamo and secretary Veshe Tureng, and Rukizu Youth Organisation president Vepazo Chotso in a press statement expressed deep anguish and outrage over the incident.
Noting that the accused lady had been subjecting the minor girl under her foster care to repeated physical and mental torture, they claimed that the child had visible bruises and injuries, indicating severe physical assault. The victim was also reported to be under constant emotional distress, living in fear, as the accused threatened her to remain silent about the abuse, they said.
They asserted that such inhuman and unlawful behaviour not only violated the fundamental rights of the child but also brought shame and dishonour to the moral fabric of the community. Strongly condemning the act of child abuse, they expressed deep concern for the well-being of the minor.
In view of the seriousness of this matter, and after thorough discussion, they said it had been resolved that the accused would be expelled from the colony premises for life. She would also be barred from participating in any colony events or accessing common facilities with immediate effect, it added.
The organizations urged the authorities concerned to initiate strict legal action against the accused, stressing that such cruelty towards a child must not go unpunished.
PTMA: Pfutsero Town Mothers’ Association (PTMA) also expressed pain and disheartened by the inhuman act, brought to light through social media with the child having bruises and cut marks, and even threatened to silent her.
Condemning the alleged attempt to murder the child, PTMA president Viekopeu Kenye and general secretary Lhiweteu Rume in a statement said this was disturbing and shocking when someone entrusted with the scared responsibility of nurturing and protecting a child would violate that trust.
They urged the law enforcement agencies to intervene into the matter promptly and take action as per the law. PTMA declared that it stood in full solidarity with the victim and the family, reaffirming the community’s zero tolerance toward acts that threatened the safety and dignity of the people.