The South African Cabinet has expressed its condemnation of the recent spate of violence against women in Gauteng, where 13 women have been killed. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni addressed the issue during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday. The killings, which took place in various parts of Ekurhuleni, have sparked widespread outrage and concern.
The Cabinet has welcomed the arrest of four people in connection with three of the murders, who remain in custody after being denied bail in three separate court appearances. Ntshavheni stated that the investigation is ongoing, with a multidisciplinary team led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) working to speedily arrest and prosecute those responsible for the killings. The team is currently pursuing several people of interest.
Ntshavheni emphasized that the rise in gender-based violence, particularly femicide, requires a collective response from men, families, communities, and society as a whole. She stressed that femicide cannot be tolerated and that the intentional killing of women by loved ones or people close to them demands immediate action. The Minister called on all South Africans to take a stand against violence, particularly against women.
In response to the escalating violence, the government has pointed to tougher laws aimed at addressing gender-based violence and femicide. Ntshavheni noted that the country's laws have been amended to ensure that these crimes are dealt with more harshly, including provisions allowing for the denial of bail. The government remains committed to promoting the security and well-being of women and ensuring their safety in communities.
The Cabinet has also called on anyone with information about a crime to report it to the police. The Crime Stop hotline can be contacted at 086 00 10111, while the 24-hour Gender-Based Violence Command Centre is available at 0800 428 428. The Minister for Social Development and the Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities will brief Cabinet on calls received through the relevant support mechanisms.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed a multidisciplinary investigation team to speedily arrest and prosecute those responsible for the killings. The Cabinet has expressed its support for this directive, emphasizing the need for swift action to bring perpetrators to justice. The investigation is ongoing, with the team working tirelessly to uncover the circumstances surrounding the killings.
The recent killings have sparked a national conversation about the need for a collective response to address gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa. The Cabinet's condemnation of the violence and call for action reflect the government's commitment to addressing this critical issue. Key efforts include tougher laws and support mechanisms for victims.
Key points
- The South African Cabinet has condemned the killings of 13 women in Gauteng and called for a wider societal response to address gender-based violence and femicide.
- The government has pointed to tougher laws aimed at addressing gender-based violence and femicide, including provisions allowing for the denial of bail.
- The Cabinet has called on anyone with information about a crime to report it to the police, providing support hotlines for victims and concerned citizens.
