A NORTHERN Cape ANC Youth League (ANCYL) provincial executive committee (PEC) member was expected to appear in court following his arrest on a charge of rape during the 10th PEC induction and meeting that took place in Barkly West over the weekend.

Northern Cape SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Molefi Shemane confirmed that a 34-year-old suspect was arrested in connection with the rape of a 35-year-old woman in Barkly West by the Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit on Sunday, March 9.

He indicated that the suspect was expected to appear in the Barkly West Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

"The investigation is continuing," Shemane said.

ANCYL provincial spokesperson Tshepo Mkhonza said they were deeply disturbed and outraged upon learning about the incident.

"Acts of violence against children, women, youth, and other disadvantaged groups in society continue unabated, despite various efforts put in place by the organisation and government to avert the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF),” said Mkhonza.

"The ANCYL in the Northern Cape takes special exception to this matter, especially because the alleged perpetrator is a provincial leader and ought to understand better. It is uncalled for that GBVF can be associated with the name of the ANCYL. The members of the ANCYL and its leaders ought to be defenders of women in society. They ought to hold themselves with so much integrity that they may not be seen to cause trouble in society."

He stated that they would allow the law to take its course.

"The ANCYL in the province further calls upon the South African Police Services (SAPS) and the law enforcement officers to speedily investigate the matter as GBVF has become a horrible pandemic."

Mkhonza added that they would offer support to the complainant, as well as her family, and liaise with the relevant authorities in the Dikgatlong region to ensure that they received the necessary psycho-social support.

"Subsequent to what transpired, the ANCYL in the Northern Cape has resolved to exhaust its internal disciplinary processes to demonstrate its commitment to fight GBVF and rape," he said.

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ANCYL PEC member arrested for rape