Outrage Grows Over Gender-Based Violence Justifications
Recent incidents of gender-based violence (GBV) where women have tragically lost their lives at the hands of their partners, often linked to unfounded accusations of infidelity, have ignited serious concern among advocates fighting against GBV.
Disturbing Trends on Social Media
A troubling trend on social media has emerged, with some men publicly defending these violent acts by claiming that women who cheat deserve dire consequences. This has intensified calls for education aimed at men, emphasizing that women are not possessions or commodities.
The recent case involving 24-year-old Mlondi Cele has elicited widespread outrage. Cele allegedly took the lives of his girlfriend, Bongeka Makhathini, and their three-year-old son before ending his own life. Sources indicate that Cele was driven by the belief that Makhathini had been unfaithful and that their son was not his.
Shocking Justifications
Further compounding this tragic issue, a viral video featuring Sibusiso Lawrence has surfaced, where he attempts to justify the murder of his girlfriend, Nontobeko Cele, by alleging that her infidelity warranted fatal consequences. Lawrence claimed that after investing heavily in their relationship, he felt betrayed when he suspected her of cheating and lying about their child’s paternity.
The Weekend Witness reported that many people on social media defended Lawrence’s actions, suggesting that Cele had "provoked" him. This alarming pattern of blaming the victim underscores the urgent societal need to challenge such narratives.
Need for Change
Activist Elton Adkins from Men Fighting Against Gender-Based Violence addressed these incidents, highlighting the necessity of promoting the message that men do not possess women. “A few days after Cele’s murder, another parental tragedy unfolded when a father killed his girlfriend and their child before taking his own life,” Adkins stated.
Instead of condemning these atrocious acts, some men are reinforcing harmful stereotypes and attitudes. Adkins emphasized that relationships should be based on mutual choice and respect, not ownership.
A Call for Year-Round Activism
Adkins lamented that annual commemorations, such as the 16 Days of Activism and Women’s Month, appear ineffective as reports of GBV continue to rise. He urged for continuous activism against GBV, insisting that raising awareness and promoting non-violence should be a daily commitment, not limited to specific events.
“Despite previous campaigns urging men to combat GBV and offering support for anger management, nothing seems to be making a significant impact,” he remarked.
Ending Objectification of Women
Echoing these sentiments, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula called for men to cease viewing women as objects. “Gifts do not equate ownership. When you give your partner a car or other valuables, it doesn’t grant you power over her,” he stated during a media briefing in Johannesburg.
Mbalula stressed the importance of recognizing women as human beings deserving of respect, rather than commodities to be owned.
Conclusion
As these disturbing trends continue to unfold, it is critical for society to confront and dismantle the harmful ideologies that perpetuate gender-based violence. Both educational initiatives and ongoing public discourse are needed to foster a culture of respect, equality, and compassion towards women. It is essential to remember that every individual deserves to live free from violence and threats.
