Admin
07 Aug, 2018
UDEMWO: Rape victim, Khensani Maseko dies; another young life snuffed out
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is shattered by yet another young life cut short due to abuse. The death of Khensani Maseko is another reminder that the abuse of women and children in this country is very much alive. It is clear that Maseko, like many other abused and raped women, was dying on the inside while pretending to be fine after her rape ordeal. The society we are living in has allowed and normalised a rape culture and all sorts of abuse towards women. Our government continues to let women down. Why are the authorities mum on women abuse? How many lives must be lost before swift action is taken? Why are our lives taken for granted or not matter that much? Many like Maseko do not see a way out of their ordeal and opt to take their lives because the hand of justice continues to favour the culprits. The month of August has been set aside so that we may celebrate womanhood, and yet our plight, and that of our children, go unheard. How many lives must be lost before the ruling party sees the seriousness of women abuse? We express our condolences with Khensani’s family and friends. May her soul rest in peace. Issued by: Ms Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
27 Jul, 2018
UDEMWO: Another child murdered: Where is the women’s minister?
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is shaken by yet another murder, that of 4-year-old Uyathandwa Stuurman, in the Khayelitsha area. A few months ago, it was reported that statistics show that more than 2 600 children were murdered in the country over the last three years, while 41% of rapes committed were against minors. These statistics shock to the core. Women are living in fear for their children on a daily basis. UDEMWO condemns the minister of women in the presidency Bathabile Dlamini for her deafening silence. She does not seem to take her work seriously. We never see her; we never hear from her. Minister Dlamini might as well be a trophy in the president’s office that serves no purpose. Why are the ruling party and its government so quiet about these matters? Why is gender violence a ceremonial topic during the 16 Days of Activism and Women’s Month? It is a sad fact that women have lost faith in the organs of state which are supposed to protect them. We live in fear in our own societies and spaces. More often than not we know the rapists and killers in our communities and homes. UDEMWO reiterates its belief that our legal system favours culprits; we believe the sentencing of the guilty are not harsh enough. Murderers and rapists must be put in jail and the key thrown away. Issued by: Ms Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
14 Jun, 2018
UDEMWO condemns attack of teacher in school premises
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is disturbed and shocked by the attack of a teacher by two students in a video that is making rounds on the social networks this week. The behaviour of the students is not acceptable. This incident occurred in school grounds in broad day light. It is reported that the assault started after the teacher confiscated a cell phone of one of the students when she was playing music in class. The teacher had every right to exercise that in class. Reports are that, the two girls waited for the teacher after school and started beating and kicking her. The behaviour of these students cannot be justified in anyway. We have been noticing the continuing disrespect and humiliation of teachers by students for a very long time. Measures must be taken to put an end to this. In another video, young boys are seen touching in an inappropriate manner a young girl who somehow looks intoxicated with drugs. The boys are forcing themselves on the girl while trying to penetrate her. This is such a horrible scene to watch. We cannot fold arms while things are going on like this. What is the role of the governing body at our schools? Why our schools have turned into warzone? Even young girls have turned to be aggressive. What kind of future generation will this country have? Teachers are also living in fear while in classrooms. They are not protected at all; hence the quality of education is getting weaker and weaker by day. How do we expect them to excel in their job while our children are a threat to them? Our education system is a disaster and swift action needs to be taken before things turn even more out of hand. Our schools have turned from being a place of safety for both teachers and pupils to be a battlefield. The Department of Education, parents and all those involved must come together to have a solution on the crisis that has plagued our schools. UDEMWO condemns the attack. Issued by: Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
26 Apr, 2018
#UDEMWO on Freedom Day 2018: what are we celebrating?
Although some changes for the better have taken place since 1994, there are far too many areas that require vast improvement; especially when it comes to women and children; their needs and the protection of their rights. 1) Economic inequality, crushing poverty and gender discrimination are still the order of the day and most women (especially the elderly and the young) are worse off in this patriarchal and misogynist world of ours. When it comes to women’s development and their access to economic opportunities there is a vast gap between them and their male counterparts. 2) Young women are attacked at their places of learning by unscrupulous vultures who leave them hurt and often pregnant with no hope of adequately rearing their babies without accessing child grants – even if these babies are loved and nurtured instead of being discarded as the product of rape. 3) Women, young and old alike, have increasingly become more vulnerable to abuse and are not safe even in their own homes, never mind on the street and footpaths of our cities, towns and villages! The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) therefore have only one question to ask on 27 April 2018: what are we celebrating? One of the glaring problems is that there is absolutely no synergy within the government departments, which leaves the victims of abuse and crime high and dry, only to again face their tormentors at home after the justice system, has spewed them out. The litany is that, for instance, if the police catches a rapist or a woman-beater (and if the docket does not magically disappear), the suspect is quickly released on bail (for a couple of hundred rands). Then the courts fail women when they give those found guilty, a slap on the wrist or sends them to jail with a meagre sentence (as per the maximum which the law allows). And then, correctional services release these monsters on parole so that they can walk freely in society to further intimidate or abuse their existing victims; or simply become serial offenders as they take their violent, criminal, immoral selves off to other places. After this hot mess, talking about justice, and the support and restoration of the dignity to victims, is a useless exercise. For years, the ministers of women in the presidency have been filled with women, just for the sake of their gender and not because they were capable women. The inaugural holder, Ms Susan Shabangu was a roaring failure. The current incumbent Minister Bathabile Dlamini, is merely a political stop-gap. Without a capable person in this post, the plight of women and children will remain an unfulfilled dream, because no-one is able to crack the whip. Simply using public money to organise an undercover Women’s League gathering to celebrate Women’s Day should be lowest on the agenda. UDEMWO calls on: 1) Parliament to review the relevant legislation that almost seems to contradict the constitution when it comes to the protection of women and children’s rights. UDEMWO believes that a zero-tolerance system should be implemented to deter, punish and rehabilitate offenders, whilst supporting the victims and their families; making sure that justice is served, and their dignity restored. 2) President Ramaphosa to ensure greater synergy between the relevant ministries in the justice cluster. 3) President Ramaphosa to simply fire Minister Dlamini and appoint a capable person in that post. Issued by: Ms Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
06 Apr, 2018
UDEMWO hopes for justice to be served, no-one is above law
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is waiting in anticipation as things unfold , as Mr Jacob Zuma’s day in court has finally arrived. We have been waiting for this day for so long and it has finally come. It is a dream come true for many South Africans. It is true that no one is above the law. Mr Zuma, like many others who have done the country wrong, will finally have a chance to defend himself. For many years, the country waited for such a day after the National Prosecuting Authority dropped all the charges against Zuma. It was a shameful day for the country but today we see a turn of tables. Those who violated and use power should be brought to book and face the consequences of their wrong-doing. Issued by: Ms Thandi Nontenja
Admin
03 Apr, 2018
UDEMWO mourns the passing of the Mother of the Nation
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) joins the nation in mourning the passing of the phenomenal woman of our time. Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela is one of the few women (if any) who is admired by most women across the political sphere. Mama lived with the poorest of the poor; she shared so many pains with those forgotten citizens of this country. UDEMWO salutes her for all the hard work and dedication she has displayed for all her life. She was such a humble and down to earth mother of all. Her strong and phenomenal character gave a real definition of a true Mbokodo. Many women around the country and the world were inspired by her spirit. UDEMWO chooses to continue with the legacy of strong and dedicated women for the betterment of this country. We will always remember the role she played during hard times of this country. When she selflessly dedicated her life during apartheid era. In spite of all the hardships she went through, she always wore that beautiful smile. She is without a doubt “The Mother of the Nation”. Rest in peace Mama.
Admin
26 Mar, 2018
UDEMWO welcomes laying of rape charges against Danny Jordaan
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) applauds Jenifer Ferguson for her bravery and boldness for finally laying charges of rape against South African Football Association boss Danny Jordaan. We have been waiting for this day and for all women, this is hope. Ferguson’s step will pave a way for other women to speak up. It goes back to say, ityala aliboli. We continue to be in dismay of how much damage has been done by those in high places. Women in this country have no place of safety. Many women decide to keep quiet after their ordeals because of the stigma and all sorts of ill treatment they get from the society. It is even saddening that someone powerful as Mr Jordaan can be named in such an alleged crime. No one is above the hand of justice and we hope that no stone will be left unturned to reveal the truth. Mr Jordaan has been crying foul. It is his time to prove that he is innocent. We hope that the hand of justice will do its course. UDEMWO, will continue to stand with Jennifer and all other women who continue to endure abuse in the hands of those they trust.
Admin
15 Mar, 2018
UDEMWO: Health department’s abject failure: as mortuary workers continue with strike, bordering on the inhumane
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is extremely concerned over the ongoing, illegal strike by mortuary workers; especially in Gauteng. UDEMWO feels uncomfortable using the phrase: “bodies are piling up”; but that is a hard fact – there is no delicate way to describe this atrocious situation. Families are already distressed over losing their loved ones and are now subjected to a prolonged wait before they can give them a dignified burial. Aside from the morality of what is happening, with forensic pathology officers downing tools; the growing backlog of autopsies has surely degenerated into a health risk. The families must not suffer and continue being in anguish for something that could have been avoided. If the striking workers have been given a final warning to resume their normal duties or face disciplinary action as they are in contradiction of a 2016 Labour Court interdict judgement, why does the powers-that-be tolerate the situation? The Gauteng health department continues to be in the news for all the wrong reasons. If it is not money laundering, it is patients who die because of departmental incompetence (Life Esidimeni); a lack of medical professionals in state hospitals, over-exerted staff, as well a drug shortages, medical supplies and equipment. Without even discussing the merits of the workers’ grievances, enough is enough. The national department of health must act speedily and solve the on-going problem; it is clear that the Gauteng health department is not getting anywhere. Our health departments exist to help those in need but instead, fail at every turn and is in breach of the South African Constitution which clearly states that: “Everyone has the right to have access to health care services”. “Everyone has a right to dignity.” Maybe the Constitution does not go far enough and should include the word “quality”. This is in violation of Human Rights. Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, must pull up his socks, those of his MECs, as well as departmental officials (at both national and provincial levels); those who fail to do their jobs must be given the boot and replaced with competent professionals. Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
27 Feb, 2018
UDEMWO: The Ramaphosa cabinet is an insult to SA women
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is disappointed by President Ramaphosa’s choice of ministers. While we notice with disgust the recycling of the Zuma cabinet nothing would have prepared us for Ms Bathabile Dlamini as the Minister of Women in the Presidency. The fact that the African National Congress (ANC) Women’s League decided to elect her as its president does not necessarily mean that she is capable to do the important work this ministry needs to do. South African women deserve better that this hogwash and the President must realise that elevating Bathabile Dlamini into his office is incomprehensible and a grievous insult to the women of this country. This cabinet reshuffle brings us to the realisation that there is no difference between the Zuma and the Ramaphosa administrations. As former President Zuma once said that the ANC is bigger than the nation. President Ramaphosa is giving a nation recycled persons (some with dubious records) in his effort to keep the so-called unity within the ANC. As far as UDEMWO is concerned, there is no Ministry for Women in South Africa despite the many challenges that women are currently facing in this country. Issued by: Ms Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
24 Nov, 2017
Justice is served: UDEMWO welcomes Christopher Panayiotou’s life sentence
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is pleased by the life sentence given to Mr Christopher Panayiotou after having been found guilty of murdering his wife. The murder of Ms Jayde Panayiotou is a typical example of how South African women are under siege from those closest to them. The Panayiotou case has dragged on for a very long time and UDEMWO is happy that it has come to an end. This court ruling brings some measure of relief and hope, to the women of this country, that justice can take a correct course, albeit too slow. It is our plea that all cases relating women and children abuse are be prioritised within the entire justice system; from the police straight through to corrections. We also welcome the extension of Mr Oscar Pistorius’ sentence to thirteen years. Justice has once against proved that, some cases don’t get “lost in the system” and that no one is above law. We understand very clearly that sentencing such criminals will never bring back any of the victims, or take away the hurt, but a fair and effective justice system will (at the very least make the perpetrators of women and children abuse pay for their sins on this earth. We keep the families of these women in our prayers. Issued by: Ms Thandi Nontenja, UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
13 Nov, 2017
UDEMWO condemns the attack of traffic officer by church members
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) condemns with strongest terms the attack of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department Officer by the church members in Hillbrow yesterday. This cannot be right and cannot be justified in anyway. Based on the chilling footage of the attack, these people look like angry bouncers who do not respect law. The helpless officer tried to warn the angry crowd but the warning did not stop the attack. What is even shocking is to learn that these people are church members who attacked and even disarm an officer on duty. We condemn the behaviour. The members of the community must respect the officers vice versa. The country cannot have community members who do not respect the hand of law. The attack on the officials is the attack on constitution and the country as a whole. UDEMWO wishes a speedy recovery to the officer who is in hospital. End
Admin
17 Oct, 2017
UDEMWO pleased by Brickz verdict
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) welcomes the fifteen-year jail sentence given to Sipho Ndlovu, popularly known as Brickz in the music entertainment business. This outcome gives hope that no rapist, not even a male celebrity, is above law. It is also good that the justice system made an example of him; for he had been a role model for young male fans, who might have thought it “cool” to emulate his behaviour. Raping a woman or a girl-child is not acceptable by any standard. It is a vicious, immoral crime. UDEMWO again calls for greater punitive measures against those men and boys who victimise women and children. Although fifteen years may seem like a long time, punishing Sipho Ndlovu can however never undo what he did to his teenage niece, but at least society has said: “No, we will not tolerate this behaviour and have been punished for breaking the law”. Nothing can ever take away the pain she felt and continues to feel; even after the ordeal. We commend her for staying strong and speaking out; especially since her rapist had been a family member. We urge women and girl-children to come forward and report abuse. We hope that the justice system will continue to deal with such lawbreakers effectively and never-ever be lenient. Issued by: Ms Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
12 Oct, 2017
#Storms: UDEMWO prays for missing flood victims to be found alive
The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) sends a message of condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in the terrible heavy storms that have turned havoc in many parts of the country this week. This period is the most difficult one not only to those who have been directly affected by the rains but the country as whole. Indeed, it is a trying time for us as a country. We are relieved that the body of the 18-month-old toddler, Hope Maphumulo, has been recovered. The toddler is amongst those who went missing during this week’s heavy storms. We hope that the toddler’s mother, together with her older sister who are still missing, will be soon found alive and well. We also pray for the 14-year-old Nomthandazo Chili (from Folweni) and 22-month-old Okuhle Kweyama (from Umlazi D Section) and many others who are still missing. We wait in hope that they will be found alive and are reunited with their families. We appeal to the emergency workers and police divers to continue doing everything in their power to locate the missing persons. No one can ever be prepared for the havoc caused by such heavy rains and winds, which saw many losing their lives and others losing all their possessions. This is indeed a national disaster. Statement by: Ms Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
Admin
09 Oct, 2017
#LionMama: UDEMWO welcomes decision to drop charges against Komani mother
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretaty General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) applauds the justice system for dropping the charges against the woman accused of fatally stabbing a man and wounding two others after finding them allegedly raping her daughter in Komani, Eastern Cape. UDEMWO has been vocal in its support for this family, but in particular in support of a woman who the law intended to punish for protecting her daughter. No mother would have been able to fold arms while a horrible act was taking place in their presence. We have stood in support of this courageous woman and we will continue supporting her. Our support is not in promotion of committing crime, but we believe that her and her daughter’s lives were under threat. UDEMWO does not condone any actions of individuals or community’s taking the law into their own hands, but we understand and know that women are under siege from those familiar to them and that desperation can sometimes bring extreme protective instincts to the fore. This mother and the daughter’s lives will never be the same after the horror and as UDEMWO, we will continue to be the voice of the voiceless. End
Admin
06 Oct, 2017
#NMURape: security on our university campuses needs urgent attention
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) welcomes the arrest of a man suspected of having raped a female student, stabbing another and robbing them at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in the Eastern Cape. It is clear that campus security was compromised with the students being accosted in a lab at the NMU Second Avenue Campus. What is of great concern is that this horrendous incident happened hot on the heels of a hijacking, armed robbery, rape and murder of two NMU students in August 2017. Earlier this year, fellow students killed a Walter Sisulu University (WSU) final-year medical student. In other incidents, also at WSU, a student stabbed his roommate with a bread-knife (August), while a female student was gang-raped whilst a fellow student stripped of his clothes and robbed of his bank card on the premises (in September). Also in early 2017, the University of Zululand abandoned an internal investigation into two senior staff members implicated in the alleged rapes of a student, in three separate incidents. And these are just a few examples of campus crime in 2017 alone. Our institutions of learning have become a playground for rapists, murderers and criminals. There must be a better way of tightening security at our universities and other institutions of learning. It is the responsibility of university managements to ensure that our students are safe in their own spaces; in class, in-between classes and at residences. The Department of Higher Education, together with those in authority positions, must come clean and let parents and students know how they plan to address the scourge of rape and murder on our campuses. End
Admin
06 Sep, 2017
UDEMWO is stunned by gang rape case in Komani, EC
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is shocked by the incident of a 27 year old woman that was gang raped by three men in Komani, Eastern Cape. The incident that saw one of the rapists being stabbed to death while the other two men were injured by the mother of the victim opens wounds to women. This incident is unfortunate. As the United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO), we stand in support for the woman, not because she killed the perpetrator but because we believe her life together with her daughter was under threat. Any mother would have done the same should they find themselves in this kind of situation. We do not condone the actions of community taking the law into hands but understanding and knowing that women are under siege in the hands of those familiar to them, we understand the situation. If she did not defend herself she could have been the one killed by the perpetrators and we are certain that if they were going to be arrested, it was going to take time. The mother and the daughter’s lives will never be the same after the horror. That is why we would like to see the remaining perpetrators being brought to book for their inhumane action. To government, more needs to be done in making sure that women and children are protected. UDEMWO has been calling for police stations in places that are rural to make things easier for the community members when they find themselves in situations like this. The mother of the victim tried getting in contact with police with no help. End
Admin
24 Aug, 2017
Dlamini-Zuma visit to Marikana – a gimmick
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) notes with anger the visit of Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma in Marikana, North West. It was just a gimmick. Her visit was nothing but a campaigning stunt. As the country celebrated women and their role in the month of August, we do not remember her visiting or mentioning anything about the women who lost their relatives during Marikana Massacre. Dlamini Zuma is nothing but an opportunist along with her team. They must stop taking people for a ride to fulfil their mission. The ruling party’s women’s league is quiet on matters relating to women but it is easy for them to use the same vulnerable women so they can be in power. The women’s league seems clueless on its role in the society or it is only in existence to protect corruption and to promote women abuse as they have shown previously. We commend the community of Marikana for not allowing her in the area. That should be a lesson and a message that people are tired of fruitless promises. End
Admin
31 Jul, 2017
UDEMWO commends swift rescue of SA woman from human trafficking operation
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is pleased with the result of the joint operation that led to the swift rescue of Princess Mahlangu who fell victim, alongside women from various other countries, to a human trafficking operation. This incident adds to the widespread pandemic of exploitation of women in South Africa. Her story is one of many South African women who become victims of crime while in search of better life. This case is also a harsh lesson about the impact of social media on our society. Although social media can have a positive effect on people’s interconnectedness and their access to information, more should be done to educate our people – especially young South Africans – about the dangerous and criminal elements who use social media to abuse vulnerable people. We commend Police Minister Fikile Mbalula for asking for the intervention of Interpol and the Hawks, which led to the exposure of this criminal enterprise. End
Admin
20 Jul, 2017
Gender Violence: Is Yvonne just another statistic
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General There seems to be a heart-wrenching answer to the question of the whereabouts of Yvonne Mbekwa. The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is saddened to hear that a burnt body, with her documentation, was found fairly close to where she and her baby had disappeared. Reports do not indicate the fate of her child, but we have come to expect the worst. “Yvonne Mbekwa” is yet another name to add to the growing list of victims of gender-based violence in South Africa. Government is simply not taking this matter seriously. The responsible ministers can’t get away with making a few pacifying noises in the media and leading us in celebrating Women’s Month in a few weeks’ time. 16 Days of Activism does not cut it anymore. What are you doing to drastically better the lives of women in this Country? There is another dynamic to this tragic situation which adds extra discomfort. It has come to light that the main suspect, Yvonne’s boyfriend and father of her child, is a police officer in the Port St Johns area. If he is found to be her murderer; the irony would be too thick to swallow; because the very person who was supposed to give protection, instead took life. We call on the South African Police Service to make a swift arrest, especially since there have been allegations that the suspect has issued threats to Yvonne’s family and community. We also call upon police to speedily investigate the whereabouts of the infant. We keep her family and friends in our prayers. May her soul rest in peace. End
Admin
12 Jul, 2017
Attack on young Mthatha woman: UDEMWO commends swift arrest
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) commends the police officials on the swift arrest of suspects who allegedly raped and horrendously hacked a 19 year old woman in Xhwili village near Mthatha, Eastern Cape. This attack is another example of the escalation of gender based violence that we are witnessing in South Africa at the moment. These swift arrests are a good sign. We hope that the investigation will shed light and that those involved will soon be brought to book. The perpetrators must face the wrath of justice for their inhumane acts. UDEMWO reiterates its call to Minister of Women in the Presidency Susan Shabangu whose silence is deafening. We want to see a functional department that make real changes in women’s lives. End
Admin
28 Nov, 2016
UDEMWO calls on men to campaign against women abuse
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja, UDEMWO Secretary General The country is marking another 16 days of abuse against women and children but the battle is far from being over. As the United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO), we feel that nothing much has been done to successfully combat the problem. If women are still petrified in their own homes and communities, it shows clearly that there is something wrong with our society. Every day there are reports of women being raped, assaulted and murdered and in most cases the perpetrator is someone the victims knows. What is more saddening is to see a culprit walking free due to lack of evidence. We are calling upon the hand of justice to be punitive to those found guilty of these inhumane acts. Also the quietness of the department of women adds more sadness to the pain. The department is not paying more attention on matters affecting women and only interested in marking these days as governmental events. We find ourselves asking what the department for women really championing if it is failing on its mandate. Violent acts against women and children take place throughout the year hence the call by the UDEMWO for 365 days of activism. We would also like to encourage more men to take part in campaigns that are to protect women and fight against violence towards them. End
