DA calls for action following tragic death at illegal initiation school

4 July 2016

On Thursday, 30 June, Thataone John Letshabo passed away due to complications from a circumcision performed at an illegal initiation school in Dihatshwane Village outside Mahikeng.

Fifteen more initiates were also found in the illegal initiation school. Just last week, 17 boys from Lehurutse, near Zeerust, were also rushed to hospital after sustaining injuries from botched circumcisions. 

It is alarming that there are no effective measures in place to prevent illegal schools from operating in our communities. These schools are often operated by practitioners without the necessary training- leading to severe injuries and the loss of life. 

The DA strongly condemns any unregulated practices where young men face the prospect of death or the threat of severe disfigurement. 

We reiterate our call for government to be more vigilant and work with communities to identify any illegal initiation schools. We call on the MEC for Traditional Affairs, Ontlametse Mochware, to establish a toll-free number for community members to alert authorities of any illegal initiation schools that are operating in their areas. 

There should be a coordinated effort between the Department of Traditional Affairs, police and communities to stop illegal schools from operating.  

The Democratic Alliance in North West conveys our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Thataone John Letshabo.

Issued by Tutu Faleni, DA Spokesperson on Traditional Affairs, 4 July 2016