AS South Africa observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the country finds itself grappling with horrifying crime statistics that have intensified concerns from various political parties and organisations.
Between July and September this year, a staggering 6 545 murders were recorded, equating to 71 lives lost every single day, or three every hour.
These alarming figures serve as a grim reminder of the enormity of the challenge facing South Africa in its ongoing battle against violence and crime.
The statistics reveal not only the shocking rates of murder but also the pervasive issue of aggravated robbery.
It is reported that the law enforcement agencies logged an astonishing 35,429 incidents over the same three-month period, an overwhelming figure of 385 cases per day, or one every four minutes.
The numbers starkly highlight the rampant violence that plagues the nation, particularly against women and children.
As the 16 Days of Activism draw attention to these pressing issues, ActionSA Member of Parliament Dereleen James has voiced the urgent need for concrete measures to restore the rule of law.
“These figures serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to protect every South African, particularly our most vulnerable,” stated a representative of the party.
Bridget Masango, MP and DA Spokesperson on Social Development, underscored the particular vulnerability of women and children amidst these escalating crime rates.
“While all South Africans are suffering under the perpetual violence of our society, women and children are particularly vulnerable, especially in the places that they’re meant to regard as safe—their homes,” she noted.
Masango further emphasised the need for the revival of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide to unify the scattered efforts of various departments—such as Social Development, Health, Basic Education, and Police—currently working in silos.
“To deal with these social ills plaguing the country, we need coordination now,” she asserted.
In a bold and timely proposal ahead of the observance of 16 Days of Activism, Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster, BOSA Deputy Leader, called for the National Register of Sexual Offenders (NRSO) to be made publicly accessible.
“If we are to make one meaningful impact during these 16 Days of Activism, let it be this: let us agree as a House to make the NRSO public and readily accessible,” she urged.
Under the current system, the process to access the NRSO is complex, lengthy, and costly, designed primarily for authorised institutions that work with children and women.
“This is not transparency. This is not justice,” said Hlazo-Webster calling for a more inclusive and pragmatic approach to safeguarding the community.
The party explains that the availability of names and faces of offenders would empower communities to take proactive measures against sexual abuse and gender-based violence, fundamentally reshaping the discourse around safety in South African society.
Saturday Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za