Women movement demands justice for GBV victims.

By Ann Zulu

POLICE in Kafue have arrested three suspects in connection with the video depicting a woman being physically and sexually assaulted by a group of men.

Police Deputy Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed the development today.

Man beating woman

Mr. Hamoonga said the three suspects were in police custody, but however indicated that police were still pursuing the man who assaulted her.

“We are holding three suspects in connection with the video showing a woman being inhumanely treated and assaulted, but we are still pursuing the man who assaulted her by way of kicking her, investigations are on-going,” Mr. Hamoonga.  

Meanwhile, the women’s movement has urged the Zambia Police to deal with all cases of reported Gender Based Violence (GBV) with expediency, efficient and professionalism.

Women and Law in Southern Africa, Zambia (WLSA) Board Chairperson Priscilla Chileshe appealed to police to hasten the investigations and bring to book all perpetrators of the violence.

Ms. Chileshe said it was sad to note that in spite of all the efforts made by Women’s movement towards ending GBV, the vice had continued go on unabated.

She was speaking at a joint press briefing in Lusaka today to awaken the women to rise up against the increasing violence against women and girls.

 “The intensity of the violence and impurity with which the violence is committed is very shocking and painful. The video depicting a woman being physically and sexually assaulted by a group of men is something which is very unfortunate and of great concern to all of use.

“Such acts and behaviors are against the laws of our country, the law should not spare anyone found wanting. We expect the law enforcers to do their work diligently and investigate all cases of sexual harassment, intimidation and all other forms of GBV,” Ms. Chileshe said.

And speaking earlier, Non-Governmental Organizations Coordinating Council (NGOCC) Board Chairperson Sarah Longwe implored government to step up and empower survivors of GBV.

She said survivors of such violence needed  financial help, urging government to include the GBV funding on the national budget.

“Government should come in and support GBV funding in full force and budget it, as much as they budget for the roads, then we shall see thing changing. Such women need to be helped,” Ms. Longwe said.

And World Vision Zambia National Director Chikondi Phiri who is also an advocate for GBV against women called on men in the country to desist from abusing women, but rather instead show love and compassion towards them.

Mr. Phiri noted that men had a huge role to play in ending GBV against women and girls.

 “It is very important that as men, we provide the needed support to women and girls, instead of abusing them. Women are special; they are our mothers, sister, aunties and daughters. Real men do not beat women,” Mr. Phiri said.