By Doreen Mokgolo
- The MK Women’s League says the justice system protects abusers and fails rape and abuse survivors.
- They want specialised GBV units, trained cops, faster courts and trauma support at all police stations.
Members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Women’s League marched through the streets of Marabastad to the Department of Justice in Tshwane, demanding a change in the justice system.
They say it fails survivors of gender-based violence and women who have been murdered.
One of the cases that pushed them to protest is that of little Cwecwe – a girl who was raped and whose abusers are still free. Another is the recent acquittal of Pastor Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused after they faced rape and human trafficking charges for eight years.
MKWL national convener Nothando Shoxi-Malanga said, “The system is broken. It protects perpetrators and fails victims.”
She said on Monday that these are not isolated cases but part of a pattern in South Africa.
“Victims of gender-based violence are humiliated, abandoned and failed by the very institutions meant to protect them. These cases expose the cracks in the system and how dangerous it has become.”
The league is calling for specialised GBV and femicide units at every police station, trained officers, faster court processes, safe houses and trauma support.
“The time to hide behind pulpits and legal jargon is over. We demand accountability,” said Shoxi-Malanga.
She added, “We want to make sure justice is served for every girl and woman who has been violated over the years.”
Pictured above: MK Women’s League marching in Tshwane.
Image source: Palesa Matlala
