Promoting a child rapist to the position of mayor is a slap in the face of voters and all gender-based violence survivors. This is the assertion by the Commission for Gender Equality.

This, after the Independent Civic Organisation of South Africa (Icosa), voted its Mayor Jeffrey Donson back into power. In 2008, Donson who was then the Mayor of Kannaland was convicted of statutory rape and indecent assault of a 15-year-old. The courts handed Donson a reduced sentence.

The Commission’s Javu Baloyi expressed his shock at Icosa’s decision. Baloyi adds that any person convicted of gender-based violence should not be allowed to stand for any position whatsoever and that a vetting mechanism needs to be put in place.

Meanwhile, Donson is expected to make an announcement on his political future following the reemergence of his 2008 statutory rape conviction. He adds that he will be reflecting and applying his mind to the situation and will inform the media and public of his decision tomorrow.

In response, the ANC in the Western Cape said it will be reviewing its coalition with the Icosa following Donson’s rape conviction.

[Picture: Die Hoorn]