On 9 May 2024, the owner of Crèche in Newlands served harassment papers to Dr Nadia Bernon, the Chairperson of the Rapid Response Team (RRT) on Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The legal action followed Dr Bernon’s public demand for the crèche owner to take full responsibility for the alleged rape of an infant girl at the facility. The case, which stemmed from these events, saw its final judgement delivered on 16 January at the Point Road Court, with the court ruling in favour of Dr Bernon.
The harassment claim arose just three days after the Newlands community was alerted to the alleged assault of the infant. Dr Bernon, acting in her capacity as an activist, had been vocal about the need for accountability from the crèche owner, which sparked the legal dispute. Despite the proceedings being lengthy, with multiple court appearances and appeals, the court ultimately dismissed all claims made by the crèche owner against Dr Bernon.
The court ruled that Dr Bernon was acting within her rights as an activist to demand accountability, and there was no evidence to support the harassment allegations. The crèche owner’s claims were entirely set aside.
Dr Bernon was supported throughout the hearings by fellow RRT activists, the infant’s grandmother, and close family members.
Commenting on the ruling, Dr Bernon said, “The rape case of the minor is still active, and a legal attorney is now assisting the mother. As activists, we have observed significant gaps in the handling of this case, including secondary victimisation of both myself and the infant’s family, even by local female police officials who are inadequately trained to handle sensitive rape cases.
“Additionally, my name was dragged through the mud on social media, with slander directed at my family by the crèche owner’s family and friends. I am relieved that the court has ruled in my favour, setting aside the harassment case against me.”
The RRT continues to support the infant’s family, advocating for better handling of GBV cases and justice for survivors.
