South Africa’s Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa has a released a statement condemning domestic violence after footage went viral in SA depicting the physical assault of a female musician at the hands of her partner, who is also a musician.
Speaking on Twitter, Mthethwa said: “We’re absolutley horrified by the actions of Musician Mapmpintsha @MampintshaNuz caught on video where he brutally abuses Internationally celebrated Artist @BABESWODUMO. We do not only condemn this senseless act but call on @BABESWODUMO to immediately press charges against him. (sic)”
The video, posted by Wodumo (real name Bongekile Simelane) on her Instagram Live feed on Sunday has drawn severe criticism from fans and fellow musicians who called for action to be taken. The clip has since been taken down.
Mthethwa added: “We call on all South Africans to isolate the perpetrators & to fight & defeat gender-based violence with the same zeal as when we fought racism.”
According to Wodumo’s sister, the viral video was indeed authentic. Nonduh Simelane said similar incidents have happened before.
Musicians close to Wodumo took to Twitter to show their support.
Statement by DJ Tira pic.twitter.com/03sYhdjpWp
— Makoya Van Best (@DJTira) March 4, 2019
Men who beat women are trash. I hope God gives you the worst punishment!!! Sies!!!
— R.M Phoolo (@casspernyovest) March 4, 2019
Statistics suggest that one in every six women in South Africa is a victim of domestic violence.
The country’s Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998, extends the scope of domestic violence beyond married couples, to women in relationships or living with their partners – and also mothers and sons.
