Action Society condemns the tragic murder of Dorcas ‘Didi’ Lekganyane, an esteemed young academic and scientist, who was brutally killed in an alleged act of domestic violence.
Dorcas Lekganyane, a young and brilliant researcher recognised among Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans 2024, made significant contributions to the field of traditional medicine and environmental science. Her untimely death is not only a tremendous loss to her family and friends but also to the scientific community and the broader South African society.
“Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to plague our nation, claiming the lives of thousands of women each year. The brutal killing of Ms. Lekganyane underscores the urgent need for decisive action to combat this scourge. It is unacceptable that women in South Africa continue to live in fear and face such horrendous acts of violence, often at the hands of those they trust most,” said Head of Action Society’s Action Centre, Kaylynn Palm.
Action Society stands firmly against all forms of gender-based violence. We are committed to supporting the family of Dorcas Lekganyane in their pursuit of justice.We will gladly offer our resources and expertise to ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are held accountable. We will work tirelessly to support the family, advocate for swift legal proceedings, and demand stringent measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The newly appointed Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has acknowledged the grave concern over the killing of women and children in South Africa. However, the time for political promises of addressing GBV is over. We need decisive action. It is imperative that the government moves beyond rhetoric and takes concrete steps to protect our women and children from violence and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly and effectively.
“Action Society urges all South Africans to join us in our battle against gender-based violence. South Africans must unite as a nation to ensure that the voices of victims are heard, and that justice is served,” concluded Palm.
