Arrest kwaito star for assault

WHILE the ANC is still grappling with sexual harassment and rape allegations involving its spin doctors, the emergence of a live Instagram video showing singer Babes Wodumo being assaulted allegedly by her Kwaito star boyfriend Mampintsha has shocked the entire country.

The assault video of Babes Wodumo, real name Bongekile Simelane’s assault, has gone viral on all social media platforms, with users calling for Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo’s arrest.

Political parties, celebrities and Police Commissioner General Khehla Sitole have condemned the incident.

The latest incident of violence against women provides ample evidence that, as a country, we have a long way to go to eradicate the scourge.

Sitole issued a media statement urging the celebrated singer to open a case with the police in order for them to investigate.

Howevwer, we would like to urge the police to be pro-active and arrest Mampintsha to send a clear message that violence against women will not be tolerated. All they need to do is to establish the authenticity of the video and to verify the identities of those involved.

Many have agreed with the sentiments expressed in some circles that violence against women is a crime against the victim as well as the state. Therefore, by waiting for the victim to lay a complaint, the state is abdicating its responsibility, as enshrined in the Constitution, to provide safety and security and enforce the rule of law.

Arrest Mampintsha and all perpetrators of gender-based violence, as long as there is enough evidence, irrespective of whether the complainant has opened a case with the police or not.