False allegations of rape and sexual harassment are on the rise in South Africa, with little accountability for those involved.
The tragic suicide of 17-year-old Bafana Sithole in Mpumalanga highlights the severe consequences. After being stripped of his honour due to false rape accusations, he was found hanging in a classroom.
His family blames the school's handling of the matter for his death.
Renowned lawyer Alan Dershowitz explores this issue in his book “Guilt by Accusation”, detailing his own experience with false claims.
He critiques the tendency of the #MeToo era to assume guilt, advocating for a justice system that prioritises due process over public sentiment. While acknowledging the movement’s importance, he warns of its misuse in making baseless allegations.
A similar case emerged at an independent school in Somerset West in August 2024. A Grade 9 learner was removed from school following accusations of inappropriate touching and explicit language.
His mother, summoned without explanation, later discovered he had not been given a chance to defend himself. The school insisted it was standard procedure to separate accused learners in such cases.
Despite insufficient evidence, the school placed him on precautionary suspension. On September 4th, a disciplinary hearing was held, where witness statements contradicted the accusers' claims.
The accused was found not guilty of all but one allegation—touching one of the claimants—despite no corroborating evidence.
Following the ordeal, the student left the school due to severe mental distress. Rumours spread, leading to bullying, derogatory slurs, and social ostracisation.
Now studying online, he struggles with anxiety, self-harm, and loss of trust, leaving his family deeply affected.
False allegations can have lasting consequences, damaging reputations, mental health, and, in the worst cases, leading to suicide.
While supporting victims of sexual misconduct is crucial, due process must not be overlooked. Schools, meant to uphold fairness and integrity, must ensure accusations are investigated thoroughly before acting—lest they risk destroying innocent lives.
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