STATEMENT OF THE ANCWL ON OSCAR PISTORIUS MATTER

The ANCWL  voices its dissapointment  on the outcome of the Correctional  Supervision and Parole Board ( CSPB) of approving the placement of offender Oscar Pistorius under correctional supervision as from the 20/10/2015.

However, we respect the processes that ensured equality for all regardless of popularity, having money, being a man or woman . We commend Minister Masuta for ensuring that processes are followed properly.

A life has been lost  and as women's league we always associate ourselves with the victims. Our heart is with the Steenkamp family,and pin our hopes on the Supreme Court of Appeal in November.

Our 12th National Conference made a strong resolution on fighting violence against women and children that:

- Parole Boards must be reviewed,

- Family courts must be revived and strengthened

- We want harsher sentences imposed on perpetrators of violence against women and children- legislation therefore need be reviewed

- That we must mobilise society and all relevant stakeholders including government and judiciary on these matters

We were encouraged that The NGC of the ANC over the last weekend reiterated its commitment towards emancipation of women and promotion of gender equality. That gender based violence and safety of people is a societal responsibility. Women being the majority have to take up their role to influence, ensure, mobilise and ultimately fight for a just and peaceful society. We will rally and support all women and children through our structures and civil society Organisations.

The NGC also reiterated that government must move with speed on an integrated response through the criminal justice system

We pin our hopes on the SCA to repeal the judgement and that Oscar  must serve a sentence that would bring him back a changed man and an advocate for women's rights in future.

Issued by Thoko Xasa, ANCWL National Spokesperson, 16 October 2015