Community outraged over brutal murder of Galeshewe woman

A 44-YEAR-old Galeshewe man accused of murdering his girlfriend is expected to apply for bail this coming week, in a case that has sparked outrage and renewed calls for decisive action against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

The accused, Mosiemanegape Kgadiete, appeared in the Galeshewe Magistrate’s Court this week and will formally apply for bail on August 14. The State has already indicated it will oppose his release, describing the incident as a “premeditated murder” involving a domestic partner.

It is believed that the victim, 39-year-old Cynthia Kenalemang, sustained severe head injuries on August 3. She died the following day at a home in Elizabeth Mako Street, Galeshewe.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly assaulted Kenalemang after an argument escalated into a physical altercation.

“The 44-year-old suspect subsequently handed himself over to the police,” said Sam. “The investigation is continuing.”

A number of community members, friends, family, and local GBVF activists attended Kgadiete’s court appearance on August 6, while tributes to Kenalemang have poured in on social media. It has been indicated that her funeral will take place next week.

Activists demand justice

The national convener of the Men’s Let’s Talk Social Movement, Gregory Nyongane, condemned the killing, calling it part of the ongoing scourge of GBVF in the city.

“The most recent tragedy involves a woman allegedly murdered by a man who is presumed to be a moral and spiritual leader in the community,” Nyongane said. “This horrific act is a violation of a woman’s right to life and dignity. When perpetrators of gender-based violence hide behind religious titles, they not only destroy lives but also dismantle the sacred trust between faith-based institutions and the communities they claim to serve.”

He added that it was alarming that some men continued to “weaponise their positions of influence and authority – whether in the church, workplace or home – to commit gruesome and cowardly acts against women”.

The director of the Shaine Griqua Advice and Development Centre, Shaine Griqua, also condemned the brutal killing, urging the justice system to act swiftly and decisively.

“We call upon the justice system to act swiftly and decisively. GBVF is a direct attack on the sanctity of life, the dignity of women, and the well-being of children who are left to witness or live with the trauma,” said Griqua.

“Perpetrators of GBVF must face the full might of the law. No one has the right to take a life.”