‘We are failing our children' – SA reacts to Jayden-Lee Meek's murder case
This case raised concerns and questions around the safety of children in their own homes. The City of Joburg Speaker of Council, Margaret Arnolds, has called on society to reflect on crimes against the vulnerable in society, adding that this is a scourge that continues to devastate families across the country.
In her statement, Arnolds urged all South Africans to confront the uncomfortable truth that the most dangerous places for children are increasingly in their own homes, Roodepoort Record reports.
'We must be our brothers' and sisters' keepers,' she emphasised, pointing to the broader crisis of violence not only against women, but against children and the elderly.
'As a nation, we are failing our children,' she said. 'If we were more intentional in our vigilance, more committed to looking out for one another, perhaps Jayden's death could have been prevented, and Joshlin [the six-year-old girl from Saldanha Bay, who disappeared on February 19, 2024] would still be with us.'
Meek is expected to appear for a bail application in the Roodepoort Magistrate's Court on Friday, July 18 (which is also Nelson Mandela Day), and the B.R.A.V.E. bikers, who ride against violence everywhere, say they will be spending 67 minutes outside the court, advocating for the rights and safety of all children.
According to a statement sent to Roodepoort Record, the bikers said their hearts are heavy with the weight of what has happened.
'Children are meant to be protected, cherished, and nurtured. They should never have to experience the trauma of abuse or neglect. As adults, it's our responsibility to be their guardians, their safe haven, and their voice. When we fail to do so, it's a betrayal of the trust that's placed in us.
'Let's stand together to amplify Jayden's voice and the voices of all the other children who have been silenced by abuse,' they said.
Jayden-Lee was reported missing by his mother in May and was found unconscious the next day on the staircase of Swazi's Place flats in Fleurhof. His mother is now charged with his murder, crimen injuria, and defeating the ends of justice.
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