The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has welcomed the Johannesburg High Court’s ruling that handed down two life sentences to Phethe Simiao for the rape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane, describing it as a landmark judgment in the fight against gender-based violence and crimes against children.
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has welcomed the Johannesburg High Court’s ruling that handed down two life sentences to Phethe Simiao for the rape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane, describing it as a landmark judgment in the fight against gender-based violence and crimes against children.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, ATM said the court’s decision not only delivered justice to Amantle’s family but also sent a “powerful message to society regarding the urgent need to combat the epidemic of violence against women and children.”
Delivering the judgment, Judge William Karam underscored the brutality of Simiao’s crimes, which the party said reflect a disturbing reality in South Africa—where children continue to bear the brunt of violent crime.
ATM cited official statistics showing the scale of the crisis: in the last six financial years, more than 106,000 rape cases and 22,722 sexual assault cases involving children were reported. In the 2022/2023 reporting period alone, rape accounted for 38.3% of all crimes against children.
“These figures paint a grim picture,” ATM noted, arguing that the case underscores the need for urgent systemic reforms. The party raised concerns about gaps in law enforcement, highlighting that of the 18,108 reported child rape cases in 2022/2023, only 10,435 resulted in arrests, with a mere 471 cases enrolled for trial.
The movement further stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of violence, pointing to factors such as mental health challenges, substance abuse, and broader social conditions.
“While justice has been served in this case, prevention must remain central to our response. South Africa requires a comprehensive child safety strategy, strengthened partnerships with NGOs, and inter-sectoral plans that prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children,” the party urged.
ATM also condemned Simiao’s lack of remorse during trial, framing it as emblematic of the deeper moral crisis fuelling violent crime.
In closing, the party called on South Africans to “reflect on the lessons from this tragic incident” and to work collectively in building a future where children can grow up free from fear, violence, and exploitation.