GOOD Party concerned over deployment of SANDF soldiers to EC amid protests over rape of girl (7)
On Tuesday, several soldiers were seen at a protest against gender-based violence, which is prevalent in the local municipality.
Matatiele residents and various civil organisations marched to the police station to hand over a petition demanding justice for the children who've been raped in the area. Picture: Kayleen Morgan/Eyewitness News
MATATIELE - The GOOD Party has expressed concern over the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers to Eastern Cape amid protests over the rape of a seven-year-old girl in Matatiele.
On Tuesday, several soldiers were seen at a protest against gender-based violence (GBV), which is prevalent in the local municipality.
The protest took place amid widespread demonstrations across the country against the rape of the seven-year-old.
But the deployment of soldiers has raised eyebrows across the country, including within political parties, particularly in light of the defence force's lack of resources.
GOOD Party secretary-general Brett Herron said the SANDF ought to be addressing external threats to the country.
"These peaceful protests, which have taken place across the country, aim to raise awareness about the rampant issue of gender-based violence, particularly in light of the tragic case involving the alleged rape of a seven-year-old at her school in the Eastern Cape. The primary responsibility of the national defence force is to address external threats to the nation."