President Zuma calls for swift justice on the death of young initiates in Mpumalanga

21 May 2013

President Jacob Zuma has expressed his shock and outrage at the death of more than 25 young men during what was reported as initiation and circumcision rituals at various places across the Mpumalanga province.

"The whole country is outraged at this massive and unnecessary loss of young life at the hands of those who are supposed to nurture and protect them. While we welcome action taken by Police so far in opening murder dockets, we wish to urge them to ensure swift justice for the families and that those responsible for the deaths are brought to book without delay", said President Zuma.

President Zuma has also conveyed his sincerest condolences to all the families affected and re-assured them of government's determination to ensure young men's passage to manhood was safe and without death or harm in the future.

"It cannot be acceptable that every time young men reach this crucial time in their development, their lives are culled in the most painful of ways, in the care of circumcision schools," added the President.

Statement issued by Mac Maharaj, The Presidency, May 21 2013

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