Anger after bail granted to rape-accused oupa

GBV organisations and political parties, including local councillors, are questioning why the 62-year-old man accused of raping his five-year-old great-granddaughter was granted bail of R2 000 a week ago. Various letters have been penned to authorities.

The man, who may not be identified, made an appearance at the Blue Downs Regional Court on 30 December, where he is facing a charge of rape.

Cape Argus understands the charge was provisionally changed to sexual assault, and the police’s Captain FC van Wyk previously confirmed that a case of rape was under investigation following the man’s arrest.

Last week and this week, Gender-Based Violence organisations and activists opposed the release on bail of the man by handing over a petition. 

The child’s 44-year-old grandmother earlier told the Cape Argus that she was suffering secondary trauma, claiming she was allegedly raped by the same man at the age of eight, but that relatives never opened up a case against him.

The matter was postponed to 3 March for further investigation following his release on bail with strict conditions. 

Sumaya Taliep, PR Councillor for the City of Cape Town, who also advocates for the Sexual Offences Unit and Social Development, questioned why there were alleged errors when the medical examination was carried out and for a social worker to be assigned.

Women for Change is also questioning the release on bail of the man.