The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) welcomes the judgement handed down to against the pregnant teen’s killer, Thato Kutumela. This will send a strong message that the Sexual Offence Act, and other related matters are being taken seriously by the criminal justice system.
Having been found guilty on 3 accounts that of murder, rape and theft, which Kutumela was charged with, we believe there is reason enough for the Judge to give such a sentence, as this will set a precedent to the “would be” sexual offenders and those who commit acts of gender based violence that our society and justice system are tired of violence against women and children.
The CGE believes that such a successful prosecution will definitely give courage to other victims of gender-based violence to come out and testify as the country deals with the scourge of violence against women. Research shows that four women a day are killed by their partners. This has to stop.
“The CGE commends all in the justice system who worked tirelessly to ensure that justice is done for the late Zanele Khumalo and her family. The 20 years imprisonment imposed for murder, 10 years for rape and six months for theft will send a clear message that enough is enough!” said the Ms Thoko Mpumlwana, Acting Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality.
Contact Person:
Javu Baloyi
Tel: 083 579 3306
