SEXUAL OFFENCES COURT ESTABLISHED IN BOTSHABELO

Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mamoloko Kubayi

By: Neo Ntsele

A Safe Haven for Victims and a Step Toward Effective Prosecution.

In South Africa, over the last six financial years, more than 100,000 cases involving child victims have been recorded.

Among these, more than 22,000 were sexual offences.

Recently, a 32-year-old man from Botshabelo in Mangaung was successfully prosecuted and convicted for sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl.

In another instance, a man from Umtata in the Eastern Cape was convicted of raping his daughters.

Against this concerning backdrop, Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae joined Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mamoloko Kubayi, today, 04, to officially open the Botshabelo Sexual Offences Court.

“Sexual violence is one of the most devastating crimes in our society. It affects not only the individual survivor but also families, communities, and the entire nation. Survivors often face prolonged delays, secondary trauma, stigma, and obstacles that hinder their access to justice. This court has been established in direct response to these challenges. It represents a commitment: that survivors will be recognised, protected, and treated with empathy and expertise,” said Premier Letsoha-Mathae.

She further stated, “NGOs need to fulfil their roles. We have funded NGOs that are not meeting their objectives. We must monitor their effectiveness in assisting communities, particularly women and children, who are the most vulnerable and victims of abuse, sexual violence, and Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.”

The newly inaugurated Sexual Offences Court provides specialised services that traditional courts cannot offer to victims of sexual violence.

Equipped with modern technology and staffed by trained professionals, including prosecutors, social workers, psychologists, and other intermediaries, the court ensures a safe, supportive environment where victims can testify without fear or the pressure of confronting perpetrators directly.

This approach enhances the likelihood of successful prosecution and boosts community trust in the justice system.

With pride and hope, Minister Kubayi cut the red ribbon to officially open the court.

“The court offers a child-friendly setting and ensures that victims do not have to testify in the same room as perpetrators. Specialist professionals are available to support victims in giving their testimonies in a conducive environment, providing them with swift access to assistance,” said Minister Mamoloko Kubayi.

She also mentioned that 16 new Sexual Offences Courts have already been established, and over 40 existing courts have been upgraded nationwide.