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The DA Women Network (DAWN) noted a jaunty looking former Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Mduduzi Manana, surrounded by singing and laughing friends as he emerged from Court yesterday. He appeared in no way contrite or remorseful about his actions and the sentence imposed, was glad to have escaped time behind bars and got off lightly.

While DAWN welcomes his undergoing community service, we hope that he will be placed in a centre where he will have to provide services to victims of trauma. He needs to realise the extent of the suffering of those who are less politically connected than himself and must earn the justice he purportedly wants delivered to victims.

While the fine of R100 000 will hardly make a dent to his pocket, it will not compensate for the harm, humiliation and disrespect shown to the women he assaulted at Cubana night club.

It will also not send a strong message to other potential abusers or act as a deterrent to those who have been moulded by patriarchal attitudes.

DAWN will continue to push for Manana’s resignation from parliament and will work to ensure a new beginning for the victims of abuse.

Issued by DA Women Network