18 August, 2005

By Sipho None and Clifford Mogotsi

WOMEN took over the streets of Mogale City today, when female staff from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the department of public safety marched against women and children abuse.

The march was held to put the spotlight on the women who combat crime, and to emphasise the role that the women in the SAPS play throughout the year. It was also aligned with Women's Month.

Marchers urged the government to implement stricter legislative measures against perpetrators of violence against women and children, presenting a memorandum to Krugersdorp Chief Magistrate Jacoba Visagie.

Visagie gave her support to the march, saying it was necessary and that it showed there was an outcry in the community about abuse.

"We will, at all cost, protect our women and children against perpetrators and this will be illustrated by arresting and incarcerating the suspect to a lengthy jail term."

The ululating marchers began their demonstration at the South African Eagle building, which houses SAPS offices, and ended it at the Krugersdorp magistrates' court, where the memorandum was handed over.

Putting the spotlight on the women who combat crime

The four-page memorandum reflected on the unequal power relations between women and men. These resulted in male domination and discrimination against women. It also acknowledged the seriousness of violations of fundamental human rights. Physical and sexual violence, economic, psychological and emotional abuse were all violations.

Virginia Mateise, Mogale City's public safety officer, could not hide her disgust towards abusers of women and children. She felt that the plight of women and children should be heard and highlighted.

"I feel very happy that we [women] came together and registered our protest, and our men should stop abusing us by overpowering us."

Banners protesting against domestic violence flooded the streets. Messages included, "United women can make a difference" and "Stop being a victim of withdrawal of cases and women and child abuse".

Constable Gadifele Motladile of the SAPS echoed Mateise's sentiments, saying women's rights should be taken seriously. "I feel [strongly] about the march and I hope the level of rape among women and children will stop."

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