07 August 2024
The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) welcomes the arrest of these people including a religious leader, Pastor Motsoeneng Mboro, accused of allegedly brandishing dangerous weapons, namely a panga and a high calibre rifle at a school in Katlehong as seen on social media videos.
It is regrettable that a religious leader of Pastor Mboro’s stature could not look for better alternatives that would have embodied the values which represent a religious leader.
Sadly, the consequential trauma of this incident to the children and educators may linger for many months and years to come, especially as it happened at the school premises which is supposed to be a safe place for them.
The Commission appeals to all those who are pronounced as leaders to always live up to high moral standards and in observance of the laws of the country.
We also call upon the leaders in that Church to take accountability to protect the reputation of that institution.
We further call upon the South African Police Services to leave no stone unturned in their investigation to ensure the safety of the affected learners and educators.
At the same time, we call upon the members of the community to refrain from destroying religious structures as these don’t belong to individuals but the community
that uses them. In the same vein, we appeal to the prosecution team to deal with this matter in a way that will ensure that justice is seen to be done for those affected by this incident.
For further information or inquiries, please contact:
Mr Mpiyakhe Mkholo, Senior Manager: Communications & Marketing, 065 592 2752 MpiyakheM@crlcommission.org.za