PDM condemns abuse of nine-year-old in the Oshana region

Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) vice president Jennifer van den Heever has condemned the gruesome abuse of a child in the Oshana region, who was allegedly raped by his mother last week.

Oshana police have reported that a woman (37) was arrested for the assault and rape of her son (9).

The incident reportedly happened this year, at an unknown date and time, at a village in the Okaku constituency.

Oshana chief inspector Thomas Aiyambo says the woman allegedly raped her son and used firewood to burn him when he would not allow her to do so.

In a recent statement, Van den Heever said such acts of violence and abuse, especially perpetrated by a mother against her own child, are utterly reprehensible and go against the inherent principles of parenthood and human decency.

“The PDM therefore unequivocally condemns this act of violence, which not only traumatises the child, but also undermines the very fabric of our society,” Van den Heever said.

She said parents who betray the trust of their children and subject them to such cruelty must be held accountable for their actions.

“The courts must send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will face the full consequences of the law,” Van den Heever said.

She said the bond between a parent and child is one of the most sacred relationships rooted in love, care and protection.

“To see this bond violated in such a grotesque manner is both shocking and heartbreaking,” Van den Heever said.

She called on the minister of gender equality, poverty eradication and social welfare, Doreen Sioka, to intervene and provide immediate support and assistance to the victim and others who have suffered similar abuse.

“It is essential that these children receive the necessary trauma counselling and physical care to help them recover from the emotional and psychological scars inflicted upon them,” Van den Heever said.

“There should be no room in our country for individuals to commit these kinds of acts and get off scot-free,” she said.