President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a heartfelt address to the nation, expressing his deepest concern and outrage over the recent surge in gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa. He spoke as a leader, a husband, and a father to daughters, emphasizing that no man should turn a blind eye to the violence inflicted upon women in the country. The President's address came in the wake of a series of gruesome discoveries, including the finding of 11 women's bodies in Ekurhuleni since July.
The President identified some of the victims by name, including Busisiwe Mahlangu, Itumeleng Kekana, Nomfesane Mjobo, and Gracious Nkomo, among others. He noted that these women, whose lives were cut short, left behind families and communities grieving and in pain. Ramaphosa emphasized that behind each of these tragic deaths was a human being with value, a future that mattered, and whose absence has left a lasting impact. He stressed that the nation is angry, and rightfully so, and that he shares that anger and grief.
Ramaphosa revealed that the government has been working to address the crisis, but acknowledged that the efforts so far have been insufficient. He emphasized that the violence being perpetrated against women in South Africa is inhuman and that the nation cannot accept it as a normal part of life. The President stated that the government must do better, and as a society, they must also do better to prevent women from being killed and to make them safe in their homes, streets, and public spaces.
The President provided an update on the investigations into the Ekurhuleni murders, stating that the cases are receiving attention at the highest level of government and law enforcement. An Inter-Ministerial Committee on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide has approved a comprehensive emergency response, and a specialized multidisciplinary investigation has been elevated to the national level. The investigation involves detectives, Crime Intelligence, forensic specialists, and other experts.
Ramaphosa announced that arrests have already been made in connection with some of the murders. A suspect was arrested on Sunday in connection with the killing of Ntombifuthi Nxumalo, while two suspects have appeared in court in connection with the killing of Jabulile Ntimba. A suspect is also in custody in connection with the murder of Busisiwe Mahlangu. The police have identified persons of interest and collected forensic material, including DNA, blood samples, and cellphone records.
The President appealed to members of the public to come forward with any information they may have about the cases. He emphasized that hours matter, and that any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could provide a crucial clue for investigators. Ramaphosa also highlighted the importance of reporting missing persons immediately, rather than waiting 24 hours. The government has increased visible policing in Ekurhuleni, and these operations will continue for as long as they are required.
Ramaphosa concluded by emphasizing that the government cannot police its way out of the crisis alone and that a more comprehensive approach is needed to prevent violence against women. He stated that the government is determined to direct attention and resources to all parts of the country where women are under siege from gender-based violence. The President's address was a call to action, urging all South Africans to work together to combat the crisis and create a safer, more just society for all.
Key points
- The South African government has classified gender-based violence and femicide as a national disaster.
- President Ramaphosa has announced a comprehensive emergency response to address the crisis, including increased visible policing and a multidisciplinary investigation.
- The President has appealed to members of the public to come forward with any information they may have about the cases.
