ANCYL hike against GBV
Youth show support for victims, call for perpetrators to face law
Members of the Chris Hani Region ANC Youth League embarked on a hike up Longhill mountain drive on Saturday in a stand against gender-based violence (GBV).
The members took on the early morning hike in commemoration of victims of GBV, while also calling for perpetrators to be brought to book.
Speaking to The Rep on the sidelines of the hike, Chris Hani region ANCYL secretary Aphiwe Mkhangelwa had strong words for would-be offenders.
When a perpetrator is
“apprehended he must be speedily prosecuted and justice meted out,” Mkhangelwa said. This will discourage those
“who think of lifting their hands against women.
No matter what their
“position or vocation, no one has the right to violate women. What is being done to
“ women is very sad.
What is clear is that young
“people are also perpetrators of violence against women. We are making a call to go back to our roots, a call for all of us to join hands,” he said.
In memory of ANC regional executive member Pakama Matyalana and other victims of GBV, a candle-lighting ceremony was held.
In addition to fighting GBV, Mkhangelwa said the ANCYL hike was also aimed at promoting healthy living and tourism.
Now that lockdown
“regulations are being relaxed, we want to encourage young people to familiarise themselves with and enjoy activities that will contribute positively towards their health,” said Mkhangelwa.
We want to have young
“people with healthy bodies and healthy minds who will aid in responding to the challenges we face.
Next year there is an
“election and every week running up to the elections the Youth League will host an event in the Chris Hani District Municipal area.
We had long ago noticed
“and enquired of Enoch Mgijima
Local Municipality about the boom gate that has been installed at the entrance to this trail. The park is for the recreation of all the people in the municipal area and sadly someone unknown to relevant authorities installed the gate for reasons known only to them. Because the municipality
“also did not know why it was here we came to officially open
the trail so it can be accessible to the public. We want to make sure no privileges are unfairly afforded to individuals while shutting out the rest of the citizens of EMLM,” he said.