Kefentše arrives at school at exactly twelve o’clock. There is a white car with Department of Education markings on it parked in front of the building, and Ms Seanego is waiting on the steps.

“The investigators are here already. They are talking to the Principal and Mr Pootona. We’ve stirred up a bees’ nest, I can tell you!”

Ms Seanego tells Kefentše that Mr Morovhi had called her in and although he didn’t apologise, he explained that he had been shocked by her report, but now that he has had time to think about it he will, of course, give Ms Seanego and Kefentše his full support, and follow Department procedures to the letter. Ms Seanego smiles at Kefe and says, “I’m sure he got a call from the district office”.

The door to the Principal’s office opens and Mr Pootona marches out, a look of pure hatred in his eyes. A few moments later the Principal puts his head around the door and invites Ms Seanego and Kefentše to come in. He looks grey and he’s sweating profusely. He introduces them to the two investigators, a man and a woman.

The woman speaks directly to Kefentše. She explains that they will do a first quick investigation to ‘substantiate’ the allegations, or judge if they could be true. A report will go to the provincial Head of the DoE. If he feels that there is enough evidence to go for a full investigation he may suspend the alleged perpetrator. Then the in-depth investigation and a hearing will happen within thirty-one days. If found guilty, the perpetrator will be disciplined.

Once again, with Ms Seanego beside her, Kefentše tells her story. The only difference is that this time she doesn’t give Posh’s name or the names of the other girls abused by Mr Pootona.

Investigator 1: You did well, Kefentše. I know it’s difficult to have to talk about these experiences. Now, do you understand that we must substantiate your allegations – speak to other people who can confirm what you have told us?

Kefe: Yes, I understand.

Investigator 2: We would like to speak to Mr Sebego about seeing Mr Pootona leaving your rondavel at the holiday resort. And to Tshereletšo, whom you say found you crying behind one of the classrooms. Are you OK with that?

Kefe: Yes.

Investigator 1: Kefentše, I must ask you: why did you not tell us the names of the girl you shared with at the holiday resort, and the other girls whom you say have been sexually abused by Mr Pootona?

Kefe: The girl I shared with… I know she doesn’t want to report. The other girl with the baby, I don’t know her. I can’t just give you their names.

Investigator 2: That’s honourable Kefentše, but their testimony would add strength to your case. And, of course, it’s an opportunity for them to report what this man allegedly did to them. We’re trying to encourage people to speak out. Kgomo go tsošwa ye o e itsošago (One has to stand up to be helped).

Mr Sebego arrives, ready to be interviewed and Ms Seanego and Kefentše go and wait outside.

Ms Seanego: So, how do you feel?

Kefe: Relieved. They’re taking me seriously, and they care. But they speak funny!

Ms Seanego: Ja, they use lots of legal language. They have to be very careful always to be fair, so they refer to ‘alleged’ this and ‘alleged’ that. He is innocent until proven guilty. But I agree with you, they’re professional. I’m also feeling more confident.

Ms Seanego and Kefentše go to the staff room to drink tea. Not long after, Mr Sebego walks in, in need of some tea himself. There is a moment of awkward silence before Ms Seanego asks him if the investigators need them to go back.

“No, I don’t think so. They are speaking to Tshereletšo.” There is more silence, and then he continues. “I don’t know the details, but it’s a very serious allegation. I did see Mr Pootona coming out of a rondavel that was not his, and I remember thinking at the time that it was rather suspicious. I’m not jumping to any conclusions; the disciplinary procedure must decide the outcome. I just want to say that I admire you both; it takes courage to make a report like this.”

Soon the investigators call Ms Seanego and Kefentše back inside.

Investigator 1: Right, Kefentše. The testimonies of Mr Sebego and of Tshereletšo Mogale confirm your allegations. We can put forward a strong case for an in-depth investigation and for a hearing. Whether or not Mr Pootona will meanwhile be suspended is for the Head of Department to decide.

Ms Seanego: How long will it take?

Investigator 2: It’s difficult to say but I hope we’ll have a decision in a week or so.

Ms Seanego: And can Kefentše stay at home while we’re waiting to hear?

Investigator 2: It shouldn’t be a problem. Is that what you want to do, Kefentše?

Kefe: Yes… Well, no. I want to come to school, but I can’t sit in his class as if nothing has happened.

Investigator 2: I understand. We will push this case through the system as quickly as we can.

Ms Seanego: Fortunately it’s the end of the year, so you won’t miss any important work.

Investigator 1: Kefentše, one more thing: the other girls. I want you please to think about speaking to them. Try to convince them to testify, for their own sake as well as to strengthen your case. Will you do that?

Kefe: Yes, Mam.

***

Tell us what you think: Will Kefe be able to persuade Posh to testify? Why or why not?