By Mpumzi Mshweshwe:
An Eastern Cape mother who killed a man that was alleged to have raped her daughter has had her charges dropped by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The mother was arrested after she killed the man on 5 April 2025, this year and her charges were dropped today, the 5th of May. The case was heard today, 5 May 2025, at the Lady Frere Magistrate’s Court in the Emalahleni Local Municipality.
The Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane and the Social Development MEC, Bukiwe Fanta, attended the court case proceedings. Mabuyane welcomed the National Prosecuting Authority’s decision to withdraw charges against the mother. “While we acknowledge the independence of the judiciary and respect the legal processes that were followed, we commend the NPA for its sensitivity and careful consideration of the extreme circumstances that led to this tragic incident,” the Premier said.
The case has struck a chord with many across the province, with the incident highlighting the immense emotional and psychological toll that gender-based violence continues to inflict on families and communities.
Fanta would also weigh in on the matter, saying that as the MEC for Social Development in the Eastern Cape, she felt compelled to express her happiness regarding this decision. A decision that she believed reflected a compassionate understanding of the circumstances of the tragic incident. “It is essential that we approach this matter with sensitivity, as it involves not just legal implications but also deep emotional and psychological dimensions,” Fanta said.
The MEC took this as an opportunity to commend our justice system for its willingness to reconsider the circumstances surrounding this case. “The withdrawal of charges signifies a compassionate approach that acknowledges the instinctual responses that can arise in moments of crisis,” she said.
“We must ensure that our communities are safe places where children can grow without fear and where women are protected and supported. No one must live in fear in their own home,” said Mabuyane. The Premier reiterated the government’s commitment to providing emotional and mental support to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) victims and their family members.
The mother had all charges against her dropped today in what was seen as a victory against the threat and danger that is GBVF. All men were urged to join in the fight against the pandemic of GBVF, challenge harmful norms, and support efforts to create a culture of respect and equality. The rise in GBVF cases has led many in the public to plead with the president to introduce sentences without parole for those guilty of GBVF crimes. –@NewsSa_Online
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