MEC calls for harsher sentence for perpetrators of abuse
Paula Mqoma's case postponed to December 5.
Kwa-Thema – The MEC of Gauteng Department of Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Mbali Hlophe is calling for harsher sentences for perpetrators of GBV.
She was speaking outside the Springs Magistrate’s Court after attending the murder case of Paula Mqoma, a woman who was allegedly assaulted to death by her long-term boyfriend Sipho Tshandu two months ago.
The 47-year-old from Ext Three succumbed to her injuries in Pholosong Hospital two days after she was admitted.
Tshandu was denied bail and will remain in police custody. The MEC said Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) is now viewed as a second pandemic.
“Mqoma died in a lot of pain, which was inflicted by a man who was meant to protect her.
“No one should end someone’s life in such a brutal manner. The law needs to take its course. We are satisfied that the suspect has been denied bail and remains in police custody,” she added.
The MEC added that her wish is for the perpetrators to be given harsher sentences for inflicting pain on others.
“It can’t be that you can kill someone and expect to walk out in the next couple of years. They too must be affected but we have a legal system that needs to be abided by,” said the MEC.
Community leader, activist and chairperson of One Strong Voice Foundation, Brian Sithole echoed the MEC’s sentiments.
“It is unfortunate that it is not only the Mqoma and Mbonani families who lost their daughters to GBVF but many other families in the area.
“We are saying enough is enough and calling on the Justice Department to impose a harsher sentence.
“We fear that if these perpetrators are released, someone might fall victim again which has been proven with other parolees,” he added.
The case was postponed to December 5. The Gauteng Department of Social Development has supported the Mqoma family with psychosocial support and brought capacity in terms of social workers.
The department will further link Paula’s children with bursaries and skills development programmes so that they can provide for the family in future and not fall into the trap of substance abuse and related social ills.
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