Uncle sentenced to life for raping his niece: A case of gender-based violence in Mpumalanga

A 23-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Carolina Magistrates’ Court for the rape of his 16-year-old niece and subsequent threats against her in February 2023.

The identity of the convicted man is withheld to protect the victim. The incident occurred at the victim’s residence in Silobela, Carolina, where the man was visiting. He reportedly found the minor alone, washing dishes, before taking her to a bedroom and raping her.

He then threatened her to ensure her silence before fleeing the scene, according to Monica Nyuswa, the spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Mpumalanga.

The victim’s ordeal came to light a few days later when teachers noticed a worrying change in her behaviour and a sharp decline in her school performance. When questioned, she initially expressed suicidal thoughts in a letter to her class teacher.

Social workers were immediately brought in, and during counselling, the victim disclosed the rape and threats made by her uncle. The victim’s mother was informed, and the matter was promptly reported to the police, leading to the uncle’s arrest.

“The accused pleaded not guilty during the trial, claiming he was with a friend at the time of the incident. However, State prosecutor Makhosonke Mashinini presented compelling evidence from the social workers, the victim, and her mother,” Nyuswa explained. 

Mashinini highlighted the uncle’s lack of remorse, the severe breach of family trust, the prevalence of rape in Mpumalanga, and the vulnerability of children.

A pre-sentence report presented by the prosecutor indicated that the 16-year-old victim continues to suffer from depression, irritability, and discomfort around males.

Moreover, the court found no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify a lesser sentence. In addition to the life sentence, the court ordered that the man’s name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders and declared him unfit to possess a firearm or work with children.

Nyuswa said the NPA welcomes the sentence. “The NPA commends the victim for her courage and resilience in testifying in court despite the threats made against her. Her bravery was instrumental in securing the conviction.” 

She also expressed gratitude to the social workers for their vital role in ensuring the matter was reported promptly. The NPA affirmed its commitment to fighting gender-based violence and holding perpetrators accountable.

nomonde.zondi@inl.co.za