By Thys Khiba
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Free State has expressed concern over the delays in legal proceedings and the impact it has on people’s faith in the judicial system.
While attending the court appearances of the African National Congress (ANC) and Moqhaka Local Municipality councillor, Lehlohonolo Ramajoe who is accused of raping a 22-year-old woman, the EFF has condemned incidents and actions that are related to gender-based violence (GBV) and rape.
The party regional chairperson April Motaung said it is worse when acts of violence against women and children are done by people entrusted with the responsibility of protecting and serving the interests of the community.
“One of the mechanisms to ensure that the scourge of GBV is not so prevalent is to make examples out of perpetrators, no one should go around harming innocent people because of their influence.
“We call on all law enforcement agencies to ensure that all pending cases of GBV, rape, and femicide are take seriously and treated with the sensitivity and urgency they deserve. The investigations need to be concluded and the National Prosecuting Authority be furnished with all the necessary information to get convictions and restore faith in the legal justice system,” said Motaung.
Meanwhile, the Viljoenskroon District Court has adjourned the bail application of Ramajoe to 20 December 2023 for judgement.
He is remanded in custody until his fourth court appearance.
The 37-year-old councillor is accused of raping a 22-year-old.
He appeared in court on Wednesday, 13 December for continuation of his bail application. Ramajoe has previously appeared in court on 11 December for the same charge.
According to the NPA spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane at this stage, the matter is still at its early stages where Ramajoe is applying for bail.
“Every person who is suspected to have committed a crime has a right to apply for bail, as enshrined in the constitution and criminal procedure act. The prosecution can oppose such an application if it is not in the best interest of justice,” said Senokoatsane.
Meanwhile police are continuing with their investigations in connection with this matter.
ANC regional spokesperson Sello Pietersen said the party has started with the relevant internal processes that deals with the alleged offence.
“The Regional leadership is in constant interaction with the Political Leadership of our caucus in the Municipality to monitor the developments around this matter.
“The internal processes of the organisation necessary when dealing with issues of such seriousness have been initiated,” said Pietersen.
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