The Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) says it is deeply disturbed by the recent surge in brutal killings of traditional leaders in South Africa, including the tragic loss of Eastern Cape traditional leader Nkosikazi Thenjiwe Eunice “Nogcinile” Mtirara.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the AmaDlomo royal clan, the AbaThembu Kingdom, and all affected families,” the statement read.
The 71-year-old matriarch was fatally shot in her royal home at Mqhekezweni Great Place, located in the Bhityi administrative area outside Mthatha on Tuesday night.
Yesterday, President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed his sadness at the matriarch’s passing.
President Ramaphosa said: “This merciless attack on an elderly woman who is a leader in our society and a builder of communities, fills us with grief. But it also fuels our resolve to stop violent crime and bring justice to those who live outside the law and have no respect for the dignity and lives of fellow citizens.
“Every day in our country, our courts are dealing with perpetrators who thought they could get away with terrorising individuals or communities.
“The attack on Mqhekezweni Great Place will end equally disastrously for these perpetrators.”
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs expressed its sympathies to the five matric learners who were brutally raped and robbed at gunpoint in the same area.
The Ministry said these senseless acts of violence highlight the alarming levels of crime, particularly femicide, plaguing the nation.
“As we mourn the loss of this esteemed leader and the violation of our children’s womanhood, we recognise the urgent need for collective action to safeguard traditional leaders and combat gender-based violence.
“This unfortunate act comes after a successful meeting between Their Majesties and the government, where the matter of safety and protection of traditional leaders was sharply raised and is receiving the necessary attention.”
The Ministry said it will intensify efforts to protect traditional leaders and communities.
“We urge traditional leaders to continue guiding their communities toward moral integrity and join forces with the government to eradicate gender-based violence. Together, we can create a safer, more just society for all.”
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has called on law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned and swiftly bring the perpetrators of the crime to justice.
The government remains committed to collaborative work with traditional leadership, to ensure their safety and security as well as the promotion of a culture of respect and dignity for all. – SAnews.gov.za
