Anti-GBVF groups held an awareness drive in the city earlier this week. Picture: Supplied
LOCAL gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) activist Herbert Miller has appealed to President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Government of National Unity (GNU) and opposition parties to act on their promises to curb the spread of abuse and violence against vulnerable groups.
He called on the Ministers of Police, Justice and Health to visit the Northern Cape to address the high rate of GBVF incidents in the Province.
“If our demands and issues are not given any attention by August 8, we will have no choice but to stage a march to various provincial departments to make our voices heard.”
In an open letter that was sent to the President this week, Miller pointed out that political parties campaigned during the election where they promised to fight the scourge of GBVF.
“This letter is to tell you all that nothing has changed on the ground as more and more women are still facing the brunt of GBVF in our communities.
“We are calling on you, who are in power, to make sure that you do not forget about your promises to our women and children who are being raped, sexually assaulted and murdered every day.”
He added that parties elected into power had an obligation to start acting on the promises contained in their manifestos.
“We need a government that will take decisive action to protect women and children.
“The anti GBVF bill signed by the President is still not clear on the issues that GBVF victims are facing.
“I plead that the GNU will amend the bill to ensure that persons accused of any violence against women and children are not granted bail unless they are declared innocent in a court of law.”
Miller proposed that accused convicted of serious crimes such as rape, murder and sexual offences be given the death penalty or life sentences without the option of parole.
“A partnership between government, civil society organisations and the private sectors to curb GBVF will be beneficial to assist survivors and their families.
“Government must form a committee that will create a database of anti-GBVF organisations in our communities so that we can work hand in hand to fight the poverty and domestic violence in our society.
“The President and GNU must not forget the promises of a better life for all,” he added.