Johannesburg – The newly appointed Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has instructed officials in her department to follow up on information at their disposal to make sure that there is justice for the older person assaulted by a man.
Tolashe has expressed shock and dismay at the video doing the rounds on social media where an elderly person is assaulted by a man identified as Luvo.
She called on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly on the information in the public domain so that the elderly woman could be protected.
In the video, the older person is seen being assaulted by the man, falling on the floor, and pleading to rather be killed than live a life of abuse.
WARNING VIDEO MAY CAUSE DISTRESS TO SENSITIVE VIEWERS
The man continues to threaten the older person with assault.
She said the continued abuse of the elderly calls for urgent measures aimed at addressing and curbing this ongoing conduct.
“The acknowledgment of the role and contribution made by older persons to society cannot be overemphasised.
They deserve good care and support from their families, communities, the state, civil society, and private organisations,” she said.
This incident happened soon after “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day”, on 15 June 2024, when South Africa joined the rest of the world in commemorating the special day.
Elder abuse is a serious problem that affects millions.
Communities around the world should promote a better understanding of the abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes.
The minister urged members of the public to continue to speak out when abuse of older persons is suspected or happens.
“We need to join hands as families, communities, and society broadly, in ensuring older persons are protected which should lead to a societal culture of improved reporting and culminate into successful prosecution and safety of older persons,” said Tolashe.
In a letter to Tolashe, the president of the African Transformation Movement (ATM), Vuyolwethu Zungula, said the abuse of the elderly woman reportedly happened in Kraaifontein, in the Western Cape, requires the minister’s prompt and decisive intervention.
“The African Transformation Movement implores your offices to prioritise this matter despite the recent changes and appointments within your ministries,” Zungula said.
“Social issues of this magnitude cannot be postponed, and immediate action is imperative.
“We respectfully seek your urgent assistance and intervention to ensure the safety of this elderly woman and to address the systemic issues that have allowed this abuse to persist.”
Zungula said the minister should ensure that the elderly woman receives immediate physical and psychological care and is placed in a safe environment away from her abuser.
He also wanted appropriate legal action to be taken against the perpetrator to prevent further abuse.
“We understand that the current transitional period poses challenges, but the urgency and the gravity of this situation demand immediate attention.
“We trust in your commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of women, children, and people living with disabilities, and we are confident that you will act swiftly to address this critical issue.”
