Justice or Intimidation? AfriForum Targets Accusers in Bergview Rape Case

In a dramatic turn of events, AfriForum’s private prosecution unit is planning to lay charges against individuals who accused Bergview College principal and the school’s caretaker of raping a seven-year-old girl known as Cwecwe. This move comes after the charges against the two men were provisionally withdrawn earlier this year, following what the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) described as insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution. The case had gripped the nation, sparking outrage, protests, and calls for justice from various child rights organisations and members of the public.

Now, AfriForum, known for pursuing private prosecutions where the NPA fails to act has signalled its intent to go after those it believes falsely accused the two men, arguing their reputations have been irreparably damaged. Advocate Gerrie Nel, head of the private prosecution unit, said they had studied the court record and believed there were grounds to pursue a case of crimen injuria, perjury, or defeating the ends of justice.

“We are not turning a blind eye to gender-based violence, but we also cannot allow people to be falsely accused without consequences,” Nel said. “If people lie under oath and destroy lives in the process, justice must follow.” The identity of the child and her family is protected under the law, and it remains unclear who exactly AfriForum plans to charge.

Meanwhile, the child’s supporters, including activists and feminist organisations, have slammed AfriForum’s stance as an attempt to silence survivors and discourage others from coming forward. “Instead of supporting a traumatised child and seeking restorative justice, they’re waging war against her and those who believed her,” said a Johannesburg-based children’s rights advocate.

The NPA has yet to confirm whether the matter will be reopened or if the evidence has since changed. For now, the case stands as withdrawn, not closed leaving a trail