Government welcomes the East London’s High Court sentencing of Alutha Pasile for the murder of law student Nosicelo Mtebeni. Pasile was sentenced to 25 years for Mtebeni’s murder and another 10 years for the charge of defeating the ends of justice. The country was shocked to hear about the abhorrent and brutal acts against Mtebeni during Women’s Month, and it brought to the fore horrific nature and violent crimes against women.
GCIS Director General, Phumla Williams, said: “We welcome this sentencing and may it serve as an example to perpetrators that the might of the law will take its course. Government is deeply concerned that cases of gender-based violence have continued during this year and extends condolences to families and friends of Mtebeni and other women who have suffered. We are in the midst of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, which is a heightened period to create awareness on what needs to change to prevent gender-based violence and femicide. We all have a part to play in challenging attitudes and stereotypes that perpetuate gender-based violence and femicide. This administration is committed to fighting GBVF and has made the fight its key priority. Of critical importance to note is that the country’s judicial system has handed down harsh penalties and sentences to those found guilty of gender-based violence”.
Government has put in place a number of interventions to address this scourge. Some of the interventions, the allocation of R21 billion to drive implementation of the National Strategic Plan, which seeks to put an end to this pandemic. The Plan involves measures to strengthen the criminal justice process and to prioritise the creation of economic opportunities for women who are vulnerable to abuse. A number of regional courts have been designated as Sexual Offences Courts in various parts of the country. About 3 500 investigating officers received specialised training on Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual crimes and about 12 public buildings have been renovated and repurposed as shelters and police stations have been capacitated with sexual assault evidence kits.
“These are just a few measure to mention but much more work needs to be done. Government calls on all men to take the lead in speaking out and reporting gender-based violence, in raising awareness, in peer education and in prevention efforts. Every South African has a role to play, especially men, to ensure that the campaign is meaningful, and that it results in real change in the lives of South Africa’s women and children,” said Williams.
Enquiries: William Baloyi 083 390 7147
