A dark cloud of sorrow hung over Ga-Selepe village in the Moletjie area as family, friends, and the community bid farewell to 14-year-old Rebotile Moloto, the teenage schoolgirl whose life was brutally cut short.
Rebotile, a Grade 9 pupil at Klaas Mothapo Secondary School, was tragically stabbed to death while walking to school in Ga-Thoka, outside Polokwane in Limpopo. The horrifying incident unfolded in full view of learners and members of the public, allegedly at the hands of her stepfather, sending shockwaves across the nation.
A Community in Mourning
The funeral service was an emotional gathering, attended by scores of mourners, including Rebotile’s devastated classmates. As her small coffin was lowered into the ground, grief-stricken friends expressed their pain and disbelief.
Her classmate, Tshwarelo Mola, said, “It makes me so sad after what happened to her. Her life was cut short in a way that is not good. She was a good kid but she died so brutally. No one deserves something like that.”
Another learner, Reneilwe Nxumalo, shared, “The only way we are going to cope is by remembering that she’s no more and believing that wherever she is, she’s with God and she is happy.”
A Family’s Heartbreak
The pain of losing a child under such tragic circumstances was evident in the words of family spokesperson David Marokane. He admitted that the past week had been an unimaginable nightmare for Rebotile’s loved ones.
“We find it very difficult to accept. We still need answers as to why Rebotile was stabbed. Today we are laying her to rest, but the question remains, what will happen afterwards, especially for the mother, siblings, and the witnesses of the murder?” he lamented.
What Led to the Tragic Incident?
According to preliminary police investigations, Rebotile had witnessed a violent domestic dispute between her mother and stepfather the night before her murder. Reports suggest that she tried to intervene in the argument, possibly angering the suspect.
The following morning, as she walked to school in her uniform, she was attacked and fatally stabbed.
Suspect in Custody: Calls for No Bail
The accused, a former police officer, has been charged with murder, arson, and intimidation. His first appearance at the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court has already taken place, and he is set to appear for the second time on Monday.
Municipal councillor Mmaphuti Muthabine has called on the justice system to act swiftly and deny the suspect bail.
“We ask the law enforcement agencies to fast-track this process and make sure that this man rots in jail. We are appealing to the community of Polokwane, Limpopo, and South Africa at large to support the Moloto family, especially as the court proceedings unfold.”
Outrage and the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
Rebotile’s murder has reignited urgent calls to address gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide in South Africa. Many are asking how a teenage girl, walking to school, could be brutally murdered in broad daylight.
The community has pledged to support the Moloto family and ensure justice is served. Activists and organizations against GBV have also stepped in, calling for more protection for women and children.
A Life Stolen Too Soon
Rebotile was not just a schoolgirl; she was a daughter, a friend, a classmate, and a young girl with dreams for the future. Her tragic death has left an irreparable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
As the court proceedings unfold, South Africa watches, hoping that justice will be served for Rebotile Moloto and that her story will lead to greater action in the fight against domestic violence and the protection of young girls.
What Can You Do?
- Share Rebotile’s story to raise awareness about domestic violence and GBV.
- Support organizations working to protect women and children.
- Join community efforts advocating for justice in similar cases.
Let’s not allow Rebotile Moloto’s tragic passing to be in vain. Justice must be served! 💔🕊️
#JusticeForRebotile #EndGBV #StopFemicide #NoToDomesticViolence #JusticeForAll
