South African activist and March and March founder Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has reported receiving death and rape threats on Facebook. The threats were made by a man who claims to be an ANC member. The suspect, identified as Sello Lemonka Gembe from Taung in the Northern Cape, works for the Department of Education. He allegedly posted on Facebook, calling for people to rape and kill Ngobese-Zuma.
According to Ngobese-Zuma, the threatening post was made on Facebook, where Gembe wrote that she "needs to be raped and killed". When confronted about the post, Gembe allegedly insisted that he stood by his words. However, he later deleted the post and locked his Facebook account. Despite this, Ngobese-Zuma's followers had already taken screenshots of the threatening message.
Ngobese-Zuma has previously been critical of the ANC, and Gembe has been an active defender of the party on Facebook. In his previous posts, Gembe has often come to the defense of the ANC when it is criticized on social media. Ngobese-Zuma made her report at a police station in the KwaZulu-Natal province.
Ngobese-Zuma expressed her shock and disappointment at the threats, stating that it is appalling that some men think that women are objects that can be raped and killed. She emphasized that she will not be intimidated and will take action against those who make such threats. Ngobese-Zuma also called for a law that would hold people accountable for their words on social media.
This is not the first time Ngobese-Zuma has faced threats and intimidation. However, she stated that she will not be silenced and will continue to speak out against those who seek to harm her. Ngobese-Zuma's case highlights the growing concern about online harassment and the need for greater accountability on social media platforms.
The police have confirmed that they are investigating the matter and are working to apprehend the suspect. Ngobese-Zuma has received support from various quarters, with many condemning the threats and expressing solidarity with her. The incident has sparked a wider conversation about online safety and the need for greater protection for activists and ordinary citizens.
Ngobese-Zuma's case is a stark reminder of the risks faced by activists and women in particular, who are often subjected to online harassment and violence. Her determination to seek justice and hold those responsible accountable is a testament to her courage and commitment to fighting for what she believes in. The outcome of the investigation and any subsequent action will be closely watched.
Key points
- The suspect, Sello Lemonka Gembe, claims to be an ANC member and works for the Department of Education.
- Ngobese-Zuma has faced previous threats and intimidation but remains determined to speak out against those who seek to harm her.
- The incident highlights the growing concern about online harassment and the need for greater accountability on social media platforms.
