By Nomfundo Jele

The Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) expressed disgust at the ongoing killing of women. In a press release, the LSSA said that the killing of women across the country is shocking, unjustified and disproportionate and is a shameful indictment against our society and the proud tradition we once held in high esteem.

LSSA President, Mvuzo Notyesi said: ‘The LSSA calls on the South African Police Service and the judiciary to protect our women and to bring to book those involved in this brutality. No stone must be left unturned in bringing the perpetrators to book. Action must be taken swiftly and decisively to bring perpetrators to book so that justice is not only done but is also seen to be done. It is through the full application of the rule of law and not mere words that will assist in bringing a measure of protection to women and children.’

He added: ‘The LSSA calls on all people of South Africa to take a stand in their communities to stop the spate of killing of women who are the bedrock of our society. This violence indicates a deep fracture on the moral well-being of our society.’

The LSSA also reiterated its call to defence attorneys who act for those accused of rape and violence against women and children – more particularly male attorneys – to be sensitive to the trauma and intense scrutiny that victims of sexual and domestic abuse are put through in the criminal justice process, which still reflects deeply entrenched gender inequalities.

Nomfundo Jele, Communications Officer, Law Society of South Africa, nomfundom@lssa.org.za