Victim of alleged homophobia laid to rest

THOKOZA - While thousands were marking the 34th edition of Joburg Pride, a family in Thokoza were laying their child to rest.

Sibusiso Mbatha was allegedly bullied at school over his sexuality.

READ: School bullying | Independent probe into pupil's death

His family says the mistreatment extended from his peers to a teacher at his school, who told him to leave his "gayism" outside the school premises.

This led to the 12-year-old taking his own life.

The service was led by Mbatha's young friends to remember a life gone before he even reached his teenage years.

READ: Gauteng Education Dept probes bullying allegations in wake of child suicide

Mourners preached the need for acceptance.

Education MEC Matome Chiloane is expected to introduce the independent law firm appointed to investigate the circumstances around Mbatha's death to his family, the school's management team and SGB on Monday.

* eNCA's Hloni Mtimkulu reports.