‘Make public list of sex offenders’
About 150 people protested against gender-based violence outside parliament on Saturday – and demanded the abolishment of bail for sexual offences and that the National Register for Sex offenders be made public.
“I will not be next”, “We’re done being afraid” and “Femicide is the real pandemic” were some of the many banners on display during the protest against gender-based violence ( GBV) outside parliament in Cape Town.
“What do we want? Justice! When do we want it? Now!” chanted some of the protesters in unison as cars driving by hooted in support.
The protest of about 150 people was organised by anti-GBV groups and is a part of the 16 Days of Activism For No Violence Against Women and Children campaign.
Venetia Orgill, an ambassador for SA Women Fight Back, came to the protest wrapped in chains and police tape. Orgill said two of her grandchildren have been victims of violence. After three years the court cases are still ongoing.
Calling the court system “bullcrap”, Orgill said: “We as families of victims have to live with this hurt, this pain, this … not understanding of what is going on. And the perpetrators can go on with their lives.
“They can laugh and they can smile but we as families and victims are not getting closure.”
She said the alleged perpetrator can still be seen around the neighbourhood. “It’s difficult on the girls.”
Founder of SA Woman Fight Back Bronwyn Litkie said harsher sentences were needed. “A murderer should go to jail for life [and not 25 years],” she said.
Other demands included mandatory workshops on consent, sexual harassment, assault and abuse in institutions; free sanitary products; the abolishment of bail for sexual offences; and the National Register for Sex offenders be made public. –