Note to Editors: Please note Riona Gokool, MPL sound bite in English
The DA is horrified and deeply angered by reports of the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), allegedly by a 54-year-old Inkosi.
Inkosis are traditional leaders entrusted with the wellbeing and protection of their communities. It is particularly alarming that an individual in a position of cultural and moral leadership stands accused of such a brutal crime.
This despicable act, allegedly committed under the guise of offering the victim assistance, represents an unforgivable abuse of power and a grotesque violation of human dignity.
The DA echoes the sentiments of the National Police Minister in condemning this incident in the strongest possible terms. Traditional leaders, like all public figures, must be held to the highest ethical standards. There can be no space in our society for those who betray public trust, particularly through acts of gender-based violence (GBV).
We call on the justice system to act swiftly and decisively. The accused must face the full might of the law without fear or favour, and his position must not shield him from accountability.
As part of KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), the DA urges the province’s Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) to immediately suspend the Inkosi concerned, pending the outcome of legal proceedings.
We stand firm in solidarity with the victim and her family and reaffirm our commitment to fighting the scourge of GBV and ensuring that every victim is heard, protected, and given justice.
South Africa cannot truly be free until women are safe – everywhere, at all times, and from everyone.