Twenty-one teens lost their lives in the Enyobeni disaster, which was caused by the government’s failure to enforce laws against providing alcohol to minors, protecting children’s rights, and preventing alcohol misuse.
This is in line with the investigation conducted by the South African Human Rights Commission on adolescent deaths at the bar in 2022. Several government organizations have been singled out for responsibility by the report.
Government Agencies Were Implicated.
The lawmakers and the police are among those considered responsible. Additionally implicated are the Departments of social development and Health.
Prioritizing important legislative measures aimed at reducing alcohol addiction was overlooked by national departments including the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Social Development.
“More evidence of legal framework violations is provided by the Enyobeni tragedy. Among them is the South African Constitution’s Section 28. international agreements like the Convention on the Rights of the Child as well.
The rights of children to be shielded from alcohol’s negative consequences were immediately jeopardized. Consequently, the report stated, “reflecting broader failures in regulatory compliance and enforcement.”
Owners Were Fined and Given Minimal Terms.
On Thursday, the report was made public. This came after Siyakhangela and Vuyokazi Ndevu, the establishment’s owners, were sentenced in February.
The two were given the option of serving 100 days in jail or paying a fine of R5,000 apiece.
The tragedy serves as a somber reminder, according to the commission’s findings, of the urgent need to reevaluate the regulatory framework and enforcement measures in order to give the protection of children’s rights top priority.
The commission has demanded swift action to resolve structural flaws and protect every citizen’s rights. especially the most defenseless members of society.
“It is critical to reevaluate the societal costs associated with the alcohol business, even as we recognize its economic contributions. must give disadvantaged people’ welfare top priority as well,” the report states.
Systemic Shortcomings
The Enyobeni disaster happened at Scenery Park, East London, on June 26, 2022.
Unsettling circumstances led to the deaths of twenty-one youngsters at the drinking establishment. They had gone there to commemorate passing their mid-year exams, or “pens down.”
The investigation claimed that “systemic deficiencies across multiple sectors” existed. These were highlighting the pressing need for extensive reforms to safeguard vulnerable groups and respect human rights.
The province’s commissioners suggested suspending all liquor licenses. This ought to continue until the Eastern Cape Liquor Board is able to adequately oversee operations.
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