By BAKANG MOKOTO
Mahikeng Ministers Fellowship (MMF) called for united action against the scourge of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide. This comes after the Atamelang Regional Court sentenced Buti George Lebitsa (43) to 15 years imprisonment for murder of his girlfriend, Thembi Lobakaeng (32).
The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said the duo had an argument on 29 September 2019 in their shack at Senthumule Extension 8, Delareyville. Myburgh said Lebitsa was seen leaving their home the following morning and upon further investigation, the neighbours found Lobakaeng’s lifeless body lying on her bed with head injuries.
“She was declared dead on the scene by Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS). Excellent investigative work by Sergeant Ofentse Petrus Molusi of the Delareyville Detectives led to the arrest of Lebitsa a day later. Bail was successfully opposed, thus, Lebitsa has been in custody since his arrest,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena applauded the detectives for their tireless efforts that ascertained that the accused is convicted.
MMF Chairperson, Senior Pastor Moss Tlalang said: “The inter-denominational fraternal of five-fold ministries described the GBV pandemic as an abomination that must be confronted wherever it raises its ugly head.
“The the deafening silence of the church and traditional institutions around interpersonal GBV often being committed by intimate partners and known acquaintance is a betrayal of women and children who have had to endure worst atrocities at the hands of unrepented perpetrators.”
Tlalang also challenged the REAL men to stand up to be counted in the 365 days campaign. He said men must embrace the responsibility to model authentic values for the neglected boy children.
“The 16 days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign should therefore be a heightened awareness programme that supports the festive season crime prevention effort.
“We also, call for a concerted effort in partnership with churches to reach out to women and girl children who are the most vulnerable. The new normal must usher a season of hope, open dialogue and respect for the rights of women and children and translate into safer homes, protected neighbourhoods for our women to reclaim their streets,” said Tlalang.
The Guardian 