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The arrest of a senior police officer on such serious allegations is deeply troubling, particularly in a country that has spent decades confronting the scourge of gender-based violence. The South African Police Service is supposed to be at the forefront of protecting women and children, yet allegations of this nature involving a senior member of the police raise serious questions about the culture, leadership and accountability within the institution.

The timing is particularly disturbing. Just weeks ago, nine women were murdered in Ekurhuleni, while countless other women and children across South Africa continue to live with violence, abuse and intimidation.

For decades, South Africa has held summits, launched campaigns, established structures and made commitments to eradicate gender-based violence. Yet women continue to be murdered, raped and abused, and the allegations now facing a senior police officer show just how deeply this crisis continues to affect our society.

This is precisely why accountability cannot be selective. Rank, position or influence cannot place anyone above the law. If the allegations against Lt Gen Sibiya are proven, he must face the full consequences of his actions. Equally, the investigation must be conducted without fear or favour, and anyone who enabled, ignored or concealed wrongdoing must also be held accountable.

South Africans cannot be expected to have confidence in institutions tasked with protecting them when those within positions of authority are themselves accused of serious crimes against women and children.

ActionSA believes that the fight against gender-based violence requires consequences for perpetrators, properly resourced investigative units, effective prosecution, and police leadership that understands that protecting women and children is a fundamental responsibility.

The nine women murdered in Ekurhuleni are a painful reminder of what is at stake. Every victim represents a life cut short, a family devastated and a community left to ask whether anyone will finally take this crisis seriously.

South Africa cannot continue to talk about ending gender-based violence while women and children remain unsafe and while those entrusted with protecting them are themselves facing such serious allegations.

Issued by ActionSA Member of Parliament Dereleen James MP