Experts have condemned the alarming trend of social media users showing support for a man who brutally murdered his ex-girlfriend, highlighting the concerning deterioration of societal attitudes towards gender-based violence (GBV).
The tragic incident took place in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), where Sibusiso Lawrence Ntaka allegedly stabbed his ex-girlfriend, Nontobeko Cele, and callously dumped her body on a gravel road. Cele’s lifeless body was discovered the following morning, riddled with multiple stab wounds, with a broken knife lying beside her.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda, a police spokesperson, revealed that Ntaka had confessed to the heinous crime in a viral social media video. Shockingly, Ntaka was later found hanging from a tree in the Malangeni area in Umzinto, not far from the crime scene.
In the disturbing Facebook video, Ntaka attempted to justify his actions by claiming that he had financially supported Cele, only for her to allegedly betray him by leaving him after receiving money from the Road Accident Fund. He also accused Cele of deceiving him into raising a child that was not biologically his.
Despite the gruesome nature of the crime, a distressing number of social media users voiced their support for Ntaka, shifting blame onto Cele and justifying his violent act. Some individuals went as far as to argue that Ntaka was in the right for seeking retribution due to Cele’s alleged actions.
Advocate Brenda Madumise-Pajibo, the director of feminist organization Wise4Afrika, expressed deep concern over the pervasive support for perpetrators of GBV on social media. She emphasized that South Africa is failing in its battle against GBV, citing selective outreach programs and a lack of accountability for high-profile individuals who commit such crimes.
Madumise-Pajibo highlighted the dangerous trend of victim-blaming in cases of GBV, pointing out that societal narratives often center around justifying male violence by scrutinizing the actions of female victims. She stressed that no justification exists for taking another person’s life, regardless of the circumstances or perceived grievances.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu condemned Ntaka’s reprehensible actions, labeling them as a betrayal of humanity and a stark reminder of the pervasive GBV crisis in society. Mchunu urged communities to remain vigilant and report individuals displaying signs of mental distress to the relevant authorities.
Not InMyName International secretary-general Themba Masango vehemently denounced those who supported Ntaka on social media, labeling their actions as reprehensible and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Masango emphasized the need for accountability and collective action to combat the deeply rooted issues contributing to GBV and femicide.
The tragic events surrounding Ntaka and Cele serve as a grim reminder of the urgent need for societal change, increased awareness, and unwavering commitment to eradicating GBV in all its forms. It is imperative that individuals stand united against such atrocities and work towards creating a safer, more equitable society for all.
