The Democratic Alliance (DA) has written to Thoko Didiza, the speaker of the South African parliament, requesting an urgent debate on the escalating crisis of gender-based violence and femicide in Ekurhuleni. The request comes after the recent discovery of nine women's bodies in the Ekurhuleni area, with seven of the victims identified as Busisiwe Mahlangu, Itumeleng Kekana, Nomfesane Mjobo, Gracious Nkomo, Elizabeth "Tsontso" Mokolo Moselakgomo, Dineo Motapane, and Jabulile Ntimba.
According to Lisa Schickerling, the DA's spokesperson for police, the crisis of gender-based violence and femicide is a national priority that requires urgent attention. Schickerling stated that women across the country are facing a crisis of safety and security, which is worsening by the day. The DA has called on the government to take drastic action to address the issue, including holding those responsible for the protection of women and children accountable.
The DA's request for an urgent debate comes as the country continues to grapple with the issue of gender-based violence and femicide. Despite numerous calls for action, the crisis remains unresolved, with many cases still unreported or unsolved. Schickerling emphasized that the parliament has a critical role to play in addressing the issue and holding the government accountable for its actions.
Geordin Hill-Lewis, the federal leader of the DA, has questioned what specific actions President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken to address the crisis since declaring gender-based violence a national priority nearly a year ago. Hill-Lewis stated that while the president has made numerous promises to address the issue, there has been a lack of tangible results. He emphasized that a mere declaration of a national priority does not translate to action on the ground.
The DA has expressed concern that the government's response to the crisis has been inadequate, with many women and children continuing to fall victim to violence and abuse. Hill-Lewis stated that the government needs to take concrete steps to address the issue, including providing support to victims and holding perpetrators accountable. He also emphasized that the crisis requires a multi-disciplinary approach that involves various government departments and stakeholders.
Firoz Cachalia, the acting minister of police, has acknowledged the scope of the crisis and made several promises to address it. However, Hill-Lewis has questioned what results have been achieved so far. The DA has called on the government to provide a clear plan of action to address the crisis and to take concrete steps to implement it.
The crisis of gender-based violence and femicide remains a pressing issue in South Africa, with many women and children continuing to fall victim to violence and abuse. The DA's request for an urgent debate in parliament highlights the need for urgent action to address the issue.
Key points
- The DA has requested an urgent debate in parliament to address the escalating crisis of gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa.
- The crisis of gender-based violence and femicide requires a multi-disciplinary approach that involves various government departments and stakeholders.
- The government needs to take concrete steps to address the issue, including providing support to victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
