The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) strongly condemns the unfortunate and brutal killing of Nonhlanhla Nhlapo. The commission unequivocally calls for the stiffest sentence in this matter. A precedent has to be set in affirming the safety of all women and children by meting a harsh sentence against this alleged murderer. A harsh sentence would send a clear message to all members of the South African society that human rights and gender-based violence abuses not be tolerated.
It is therefore critical that in our endeavour to create a society free from gender oppression and inequality that the law must be seen to be working. An enabling environment wherein people have the right of association without having to be afraid of their lives has to be created. This will go a long way in restoring the faith of all the families that had the misfortune of having their family members violently robbed of their lives.
The commission call on law enforcers to investigate issues of statutory rape against the deceased, henceforth ensure that the alleged murderer face the consequences if proven, as the actions will have been in contravention of Sexual Offences and Children’s Act.
This will therefore send a strong message to all those that are violating the rights of young girls hoping that the wheels of justice won’t catch up with them. The CGE will in all eventualities observe the proceedings as per the CGE Act which empowers the commission with the necessary powers to monitor all gender related activities, subsequently making pronouncements on them.
Enquiries:
Javu Baloyi
Cell: 083 579 3306
