Anti-GBV collective slams Mawela's remarks on rape

Releasing the quarterly crime statistics on Tuesday, Mawela lamented the continued rise in rape and sexual assault cases in the province. 

Between July and September 2021, a total of 2 054 cases were opened in Gauteng police stations.

Mawela said they had failed to maintain a downward trajectory that was reflected in the 2019/2020 period as rape and sexual assault continue to be the some most challenging crimes to reduce.  

He said in fighting the scourge, police and all stakeholders needed to go out there and educate women and children on how they can avoid being victims of rape and sexual assault.

This statement has angered many, with advocacy group WISE 4 AFRIKA labeling the commissioner’s comments as “unfortunate”. 

"The statement by the commissioner cannot even be labeled unfortunate but a sheer manifestation of disdain and contempt of victims of rape by those who wield power. This demonstrates the lack of attention, priority, and absence of law enforcement of seeking justice for victims and survivors of rape. Clearly, this statement is an embodiment of the nature of patriarchy and hatred of woxmn in our country,” said director Brenda Madumise-Pajibo.

"Maybe he should also tell the nation that they should be educated so that they are not robbed and burglarised. Similarly, he should educate government officials not to commit acts of corruption.

The police commissioner must stop deflecting and obfuscating issues but act in a manner befitting of an individual charged with the responsibility of ensuring the safety of citizens, specifically womxn.

“Probably commissioner should be the one educated on his constitutional responsibilities and whilst at it read what Justice Khampepe had to say about rape in the Ntuli vs the State case.”

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