Gauteng acting Premier Lebogang Maile calls for men to take a stand against GBV following a tragic incident in Eldorado Park
Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to be a prevalent issue in South Africa, with recent incidents prompting Gauteng acting Premier Lebogang Maile to speak out on the importance of men leading the fight against this pervasive crime. Maile’s call to action comes in the wake of a heartbreaking tragedy in Eldorado Park, where a police officer allegedly killed his girlfriend, highlighting the urgent need for societal change.
The victim, Chesnay Keppler, a 22-year-old Gauteng Crime Prevention Warden, was fatally shot by her boyfriend, a 42-year-old police officer, using his service pistol. The officer then attempted to take his own life and is currently hospitalized. The devastating loss of Keppler has shocked the community and sparked outrage over the prevalence of violence against women.
Men must lead the fight against GBV
Maile emphasized the crucial role that men must play in combatting GBV, noting that the majority of perpetrators are male. He stressed the need for men to step up and protect women from abuse, calling for a united effort to eradicate this societal scourge. Maile’s visit to Keppler’s family served as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of gender-based violence on families and communities.
“It is heartbreaking to see a woman lose her life at the hands of someone who should have protected her. We cannot allow such incidents to continue unchecked. Men must take a stand and actively oppose violence against women,” Maile stated.
Creating a culture of accountability
As the accused officer faces murder charges, Maile emphasized the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. He called for a united front in the fight against GBV, drawing parallels to the collective effort seen in combating other public health crises.
Additionally, the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) expressed deep concern over the mental health challenges faced by law enforcement officers, highlighting the need for greater support and resources to address these issues. Popcru called for a culture that encourages officers to seek help without fear of stigma or repercussions.
Urgent action needed to address GBV
As South Africa grapples with the persistent problem of gender-based violence, it is clear that a multi-faceted approach is needed to address the root causes of this societal issue. Maile’s call for men to take a stand against GBV is a crucial step towards creating a safer and more equitable society for all.
By coming together as a community and advocating for change, we can work towards a future where incidents of violence against women are no longer tolerated. It is only through collective action and a commitment to accountability that we can truly make a difference in the fight against GBV.
