×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

March against abuse

Sipho Masombuka

About 600 people, mainly women clad in white T-shirts, marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria yesterday in a symbolic support of the 16 days of activism against violence on women and children.

Though yesterday's march was to highlight the abuses, it became a platform to voice women's disappointment with the ANC Women's League's nomi- nation of Jacob Zuma as a preferred candidate for ANC president.

The march was led by Minister of Minerals and Energy Buyelwa Sonjica, Deputy Minister of Provincial and Local Government Nomatyala Hangana and Deputy Minister of Public Safety and Security Susan Shabangu.

Traffic came to a standstill as the 600-strong crowd converged at Lilian Ngoyi Square where T-shirts were distributed.

The protesters then marched up Vermeulen Street to the Union Buildings.

Speaking to Sowetan, ANCWL veteran Xoliswa Falati said strides that had been made in gender equality and protection of women and children against abuse had suffered a serious setback with the women's choice of ANC presidential candidate.

Women's league executive member Mavivi Myakayaka-Manzini said: "One of the challenges facing women today is ensuring that gains made in the past 20 years are not eroded. The 50-50 quota in positions of power should be on the agenda in Polokwane and should be implemented."

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.