Update

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - A small but determined group set off from Kroonvale last Thursday, to march in protest against the recent spate of violent attacks on women.

By the time that the march had passed the Robert Sobukwe building and turned into Church Street, the numbers had increased considerably. Participants handed out SAPS leaflets with information on domestic violence to spectators along the route.

As they reached the town hall, the marchers were greeted by Mayor Deon de Vos. Cllr Glenda Mackelina, who organised the protest with Rev Petrus Gysman, thanked De Vos for his interest.

A petition calling for action on the abuse of women and children, and xenophobia, was handed to the mayor, who signed the document.

"Too many men are abusing the women in their own families," De Vos told the men in the crowd, urging men to respect and protect women. "Never allow an abuser to think he can control your life," he told the women. "Fear is what they want: stand up to the abusers, and report them." He shared his worries for the safety of his own daughter.

"On 17 September I am meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa in Lusisikiki, and I will give your petition to him," said De Vos, bringing forth applause from the crowd. He reminded people not to take the law into their own hands, but to allow SAPS and then the courts to mete out justice. He promised to send the petition to the local magistrates' office, and all others in the area. He showed his support for the demands of tougher sentences, and no bail, for those who abuse women and children.

Locals from Graaff-Reinet and surrounds march towards the town hall to deliver a petition to Mayor Deon de Vos. Photos: Sue Shaw

After the mayor's address, a prayer meeting was held at the Alex Laing Hall, organised by Pastor Joy Williams. About 40 people attended, with leaders from five churches and representatives from the Community Policing Forum and the Department of Social Development taking the lead.

"The prevalence of gender-based violence and xenophobia undermine the perception that South Africa is a Christian nation," said Rev Dr Mark Marais. "The disrespect shown within families, and to foreigners, are symptoms of the failure of the people of South Africa to be a nation of believers in God."