A nine-year-old girl injured in a fight between ANC and EFF members in Juju Valley, Limpopo, one week before general elections, has been released from the hospital.
The girl underwent an incredible recovery following her admission to the Petersburg Tertiary and Academic Hospital two weeks ago.
She sustained a head wound and was admitted to the hospital in critical condition.
Joseph Buthane was arrested a week ago and released on bail after it was discovered that he was involved in the shooting.
Buthane charged with attempted murder
At the time of the shooting, Buthane had rejoined the ANC after falling out with Julius Malema, the president of the EFF.
He faces charges that include attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and live ammunition.
After turning himself in to the Seshego police, Buthane made a brief appearance in the local magistrate’s court before being granted R5 000 bail.
The politician is expected to be back in court on July 2.
According to Dr Phophi Ramathuba, the MEC for health for Limpopo, the child required a neurosurgical procedure that took over five hours in the operating room.
The girl was responding well to treatment, Ramathuba added, and she was now headed towards a full recovery.
Public health has skilled professionals
“We would like to thank our dedicated team of neurosurgeons, intensive care unit staff, and other carers for their efforts, which is another demonstration that our public health facilities have highly skilled professionals who are passionate about saving and preserving lives,” said Ramathuba.
She said the team would continue to monitor the child’s progress during her scheduled follow-up visits.
“We are optimistic about her future health and wellbeing and remain committed to providing any additional support she may require.
“We also thank members of the public for their prayers during that difficult time of uncertainty.
“As she leaves our care, we ask for continued privacy and respect for the young girl and her family as they focus on her continued recuperation.”
Neglected and forgotten
The mother of the victim told Sunday World recently that she felt neglected and forgotten by politicians whose supporters’ actions put her daughter’s life in danger.
“I am going through this traumatic experience alone, except for the support I get from my immediate family,” said the girl’s mother.
“The politicians who wanted to do cheap politicking and point-scoring immediately after this tragedy have since vanished into thin air.”
