Powa: Charging Manana, Sisulu sends strong message to abusers
The NPA’s Phindi Mjonondwane says they will not hesitate to arrest and charge even the highest profile people accused of abuse.
JOHANNESBURG – Civil rights organisations have reacted with outrage to the number of abuse cases that have surfaced involving public figures.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed that Shaka Sisulu the grandson of struggle stalwarts Walter and Albertina Sisulu has been charged with assaulting the mother of his son.
On Friday, retired footballer Marks Maponyane was sentenced to six months in prison or a fine of R3,000 after he pleaded guilty to the assault of his wife, Sylvia Maponyane.
And last week, deputy Higher Education Minister Mduduzi Manana appeared in court on assault charges.
People Opposing Women and Child Abuse (Powa)’s Nhlanhla Mokwena says the charging of Sisulu and Manana and sentencing of Maponyane should send a strong message to abusers across the country.
“The abuser can be anyone, especially people who are respected in the community, people who even say the correct things when they are in public.”
At the same time, the NPA’s Phindi Mjonondwane says they will not hesitate to arrest and charge even the highest profile people accused of abuse.
“Irrespective of Mr Maponyane’s social standing in society, where he has been found guilty, he was sentenced accordingly.”
Sisulu and Manana are currently out on bail.
(Edited by Leeto M Khoza)
