South Africa: Chairperson of the Multi-Party Women’s Caucus Ms Bilankulu condemns the deaths of the 21 youngsters at Enyobeni Tavern

Ms Nkhensani Bilankulu, Chairperson of the Multi-Party Women’s Caucus (MPWC), expressed deep regret today over the weekend deaths of 21 young people at a pub in the Eastern Cape.

Ms Bilankulu decried the killings of the 21 children at Enyobeni Tavern early Sunday morning. “I am extremely sad and I think I can speak on behalf of the whole committee in expressing sadness at the untimely deaths of these youngsters who had their whole future ahead of them. They have now been robbed of this.”

The catastrophe claimed the lives of 12 boys and nine girls, the youngest of them was 13 years old. “I am further concerned that young people of this age, under 18 years of age, are allowed in a tavern and are allowed to consume alcohol in that place.

“Action should be taken against owners who allow underage patrons into such places. I am also concerned about these young people being in that place in the early hours of the morning. Where is the parental supervision?”

Ms Bilankulu urged all stakeholders – parents, the community, law enforcement authorities, and the education and recreation sectors – to take a more active role in guiding youth to make good choices and providing safer recreation options to ensure young people are not vulnerable to negative influences, particularly in underprivileged or poorer communities.

“On behalf of the MPWC, I would like to send our deepest condolences to the families, friends and community of all those affected by this tragedy.”