EFF marchers demand action

UMDONI Economic Freedom Fighter (EFF) members held a peaceful march from Amandawe to Scottburgh on Monday morning this week, to raise awareness on gender-based violence against women and children within the Ugu District.

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Marchers assembled at the Amandawe taxi rank, and made their way through the streets of Scottburgh to hand over a memorandum at the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court.

“We as the community of the Ugu District have come to this department because we are concerned at the high level of gender-based violence in our community ,” said Xolani Ntini, EFF Ward 14 secretary.

“These issues are caused by some of us as men who are killing our women and children almost on a daily basis.”

Mr Ntini addressed senior magistrate, Thami Cele, and representatives from the Department of Justice at the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court.

He explained that the purpose of the march was not only to raise public awareness, but to also seek assistance from the department in ensuring that perpetrators were given harsh sentences if found guilty.

The following issues were highlighted in the memorandum:

1. The high rate of sexual abuse and assault of children, mostly girls, who are innocent victims.

2. The killing of toddlers and schoolchildren, mainly due to the social ills prevalent in disadvantaged communities.

3. The high rate of domestic violence suffered by women – they are not well protected as there are loopholes that allow them to be abused even though they have lodged a protection order.

4. Women killed on an almost daily basis during disagreements with their partners.

5. The number of rape cases that are reported and taken to court but convictions are not obtained, allowing perpetrators to avoid going to jail.

6. The abuse of women – especially young women – in entry level jobs in both the private and public sectors, who experience sexual harassment and when they speak out, are victimised and ill-treated by their employers.

Marchers pleaded with the court and the department to give these offenses “serious attention and priority” so that those found guilty could be handed life sentences.

Mr Ntini went on to explain that the marchers hoped that the law would be amended, especially section two of the Constitution (which states that the Constitution is the supreme law of the republic), as they believe this would help make their demands a reality.

“If these harsher sentences and convictions can be achieved, then maybe one day, our country will become free.

As things stand, our justice system is protecting those who are powerful and makes them look innocent, even though they are guilty.”

Senior Magistrate Cele accepted the memorandum and briefly explained to the marchers that they could help by playing their part in combating the abuse.

“We would also like community members to know that the court and the police appreciate their support and we want to encourage more people to do so,” he said.

“Community members coming forward and either reporting crimes or testifying in court can help us ensure that criminals are dealt with.”

Marchers then dispersed, holding their placards high and singing struggle songs.

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