ANC Johannesburg demands public sex offender register following Soweto rape case

The African National Congress (ANC) in Johannesburg is calling for the National Register for Sex Offenders to be made public following the arrest of a 58-year-old man for the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl.

The incident reportedly took place at the suspect's residence in Dobsonville, Soweto, over the Easter weekend. The accused appeared in the Roodepoort Magistrate's Court on Tuesday to apply for bail.

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The court appearance drew a significant crowd of demonstrators. Various political parties, civic groups, and school pupils gathered outside the building to stage a protest in support of the young victim and her family.

The atmosphere was charged as activists demanded stricter oversight of known offenders to prevent further crimes against children.

ANC Johannesburg Chairperson Loyiso Masuku, who joined the demonstration, emphasised the need for community awareness and transparency regarding the identities of sex offenders.

"They [shouldn't] roam around in our communities, they don't become repeat offenders because we know them," Masuku stated. "The reason we are here today is to demonstrate our commitment."

The ANC argues that making the register public would serve as a deterrent and empower residents to better protect vulnerable members of society.

The bail hearing continues.