GOOD Statement by Brett Herron,
GOOD Secretary-General & Member of the Western Cape Parliament
04 September 2025
The GOOD Party welcomes the appointment of Sarah Helena Roberts as the new Western Cape Commissioner for Children. As a member of the Standing Committee that interviewed candidates for this vital role, it was clear to me, and to many others, that Roberts possesses the competence, integrity, and skills required to serve the children of our province with distinction.
Her appointment comes at a time when the need for bold, independent advocacy for children could not be more urgent. Just this week, the police reported to the Provincial Legislature that 63 children were killed in the Western Cape between April and August this year, 22% of these deaths linked to gang violence.
These devastating statistics underscore the scale of the crisis facing our children and the importance of having an impartial and courageous Children’s Commissioner who will stand up for their rights and protection, free from political interference.
Her office needs to play a critical role in supporting and strengthening efforts to improve the well-being of children across the province, through advocacy, independent research and community engagement.
Our children are under attack and they need a fierce defender, now, more than ever.