KEY POINTS
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The parent-child bond is sacred and must be protected.
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Joshlin Smith’s case reveals a deep national moral crisis.
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Justice was served, but systemic change is urgently needed.
The disappearance and trial of six-year-old Joshlin Smith have reignited focus on the sacred parent-child bond.
The parent-child relationship is sacred and carries moral weight
This connection—viewed in biblical teachings as foundational—requires protection, sacrifice, discipline, moral responsibility, and nurturing.
Outrage followed the conviction of three adults—Racquel Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn—found guilty of kidnapping and trafficking Joshlin by a Western Cape High Court in Diazville.
The verdict sparked national dialogue on parental duties, child protection laws, and collective responsibility in preventing such tragedies.
South African Council of Churches (SACC) General Secretary, Reverend Mzwandile Molo, echoed Judge Erasmus’s view, calling the case a deep moral breach.
He said the accused disregarded their duty of care, causing devastating harm. Molo likened the biblical parent-child bond to God’s love—formed through divine trust, discipline, legacy, and selfless love.
He referenced Mary and Jesus as symbols of nurturing purpose, Hannah and Samuel as models of prayer-led parenting, and Jacob and Joseph as an example of respect and healing after betrayal.
Molo praised the National Prosecuting Authority and police for their commitment to securing justice in this heart-wrenching case.
He urged continued efforts to find Joshlin, expressing hope that she is alive. “Wherever Joshlin may be, we pray God sends His angels to protect her and lead her home,” he said.
He reminded communities that the tragedy underscores the need to protect every child, ensuring all feel safe and valued.
Court delivers justice but questions about child safety remain
IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa welcomed the verdict but emphasized the ongoing battle against child trafficking and called for continued search efforts.
According to Iol, he stressed that child protection must go beyond outrage and symbolic actions to become a national priority.
ActionSA MP Dereleen James also applauded the conviction but warned that it doesn’t fix the broken systems that enabled the crime.
She said Joshlin’s case reflects the reality of countless children trapped in poverty, neglected by flawed systems, and raised by unfit guardians.
James called for meaningful state intervention and systemic reforms, asserting that real justice demands more than courtroom victories—it requires structural and social change.
