President Zuma launches 16 Days of Activism on the East Rand
East Rand hosts president for 16 Days launch.
President Jacob Zuma urged residents to work together to eradicate gender based violence in their communities when he launched the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign in Reiger Park, Boksburg, on Tuesday.
The president made it clear that murderers, child abusers and rapists have no place in society while addressing the residents of the grief stricken township at the WJ Clements Stadium, where the launch was held.
In a quest for a safer and violence free South Africa, Zuma urged young men to commit themselves to becoming activists against gender based violence.
This message was also directed at every citizen of the country; hence the theme of this year’s campaign is “Count Me In”.
Zuma discouraged alcohol and drug abuse and sighted them as some of the key factors that spark domestic violence.
He vehemently disapproved of parents who leave their children home alone; according to the president such parents are as guilty as those who commit crime to children.
In his speech he told residents to speak out even if the perpetrator is a family member.
“We are sending out a clear message that abusers, murderers and rapists have no place in our communities.
“Let us work with police and the courts to ensure that the perpetrators are convicted.
“The re-establishment of Sexual Offences Court has been prioritised by the government.
“Through this, government intends to reduce secondary trauma and also to reduce the turnaround time to convict,” said Zuma.
The brutal and senseless killings of Taegrin Morris, Siphamandla Madikane and Curburne van Wyk were also on the president’s agenda.
“Gauteng Premier David Makhura promised that the provincial task team will do everything possible to apprehend the perpetrators who committed these crimes.
“We share the pain of loss of the children in this community (Reiger Park) and countrywide,” Zuma said.
Executive mayor of Ekurhuleni, Clr Mondli Gungubele said this launch could not have taken place at in a better community, considering the brutality meted out on children by criminals there in recent months.
“We all have the responsibility of making sure that everyone feels safe in our streets, homes and all public spaces.
“We must take back our streets and public spaces from criminals,” said Gungubele.
