‘Culture of silence’ on GBV should come to an end, says Ramaphosa
African National Congress (ANC) President Cyril Ramphosa has urged South Africans to end what he calls a culture of silence on gender-based violence.
Ramaphosa was speaking at the governing party’s Youth Day event on Monday, where he was joined by young people and members of the tripartite alliance.
“The culture of silence around gender-based violence must also come to an end,” he said.
“Young people when you know your friends or relatives are victims, be compassionate and listen and offer practical support and do not judge.”
The comments by Ramaphosa comes at a time where the country is yet again battling a surge in gender-based violence and incidents of femicides.
Last week, 28-year-old Tshegofasto Pule died after she was stabbed and found hanging from a tree in Roodepoort.
No arrested have been made in connection with the murder.
There have also been high-profile killings in the Western Cape and Tshwane.
Ramaphosa said the government is currently in the process of strengthening laws to protect the country’s most vulnerable.
“Government is strengthening laws to provide greater protection and support for survivors and increased sentences for perpetrators.
“We are rolling out more sexual offences courts and providing more training for law enforcement officers.
“However these measures must be supported by a society that is willing to work together to prevent these murderous acts from taking place.”