Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for a national conversation on the escalating crisis of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa, describing the situation as “unacceptable” and urging urgent systemic change.
Mashatile’s comments came during a session in parliament on Thursday, following the release of disturbing statistics by Statistics South Africa and the Human Sciences Research Council.
Victims of physical violence
According to the data, one in three women aged 16 and older has experienced physical violence, while one in five has faced sexual abuse.
Additionally, 33.1% of women over the age of 18 reported being victims of physical violence in their lifetimes.
“We cannot allow this situation to continue,” Mashatile said, condemning the continued abuse of women and children.
He specifically referenced the recent murder of seven-year-old Cwecwe from Matatiele, describing the incident as a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need for reform.
The Deputy President urged law enforcement and judicial institutions to expedite justice for victims.
He highlighted steps being taken by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), including a victim-centred approach and the establishment of the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs (SOCA) Unit.
The SOCA Unit oversees initiatives such as the Thuthuzela Care Centre model, which offers holistic support services to GBV survivors and has reportedly improved conviction rates in GBV-related cases.
High-profile trial
Paul Mashatile also addressed public concerns surrounding the recent acquittal of Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso, whose high-profile trial spanned more than eight years.
He confirmed that the Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions is currently reviewing the matter and investigating prosecutorial conduct.
In his capacity as Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security, Mashatile confirmed he had already met with the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities to strengthen accountability across government departments dealing with GBVF.
“Without peace and safety, there is no meaningful development.
“The people of South Africa are looking to us to end this pandemic of violence and restore dignity to survivors,” he said.
The Deputy President’s statement underscores growing pressure on the government to deliver tangible reforms amid public frustration over the pace of progress in addressing GBVF.
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