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IOL News
3 days ago
- IOL News
Olorato Mongale's murder: A reflection on the dangers facing South African women
Olorato Mongale was recently found dead after going on a date. Image: X Olorato Mongale, a 30-year-old journalism graduate and WITS student, was recently found dead after going on a date. Police have announced that they have arrested one suspect and are searching for two more. On that tragic day, Mongale was picked up by her alleged date, sparking discussions about the precautions that South African women are expected to take to navigate the country's femicide crisis. Women For Change founder Sabrina Walter told IOL that she is exhausted by the same cycle of grief, outrage, and hollow discussions that follow every femicide. "The conversation shifts to what she could have done differently, as if women are responsible for their own murders," she said. "I am tired of being asked what 'precautions' women should take when the real question should be: Why are men still getting away with murder?" Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Walter asserted that Mongale did not die due to a lack of precautions, but because men who were reportedly out on bail gained access to her and ultimately murdered her. National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said two of the suspects are currently on the run, Bongani Mthimkhulu and Philangenkosi Makhanya were previously arrested and charged for kidnapping and robbery. Mathe said the syndicate preys on young women at malls. "We are investigating a syndicate. These men use the same modus operandi where they approach these young women at malls and ask to take them out on dates. When these women agree, that is when they plan to rob them," she said. Walter questioned why these men were free after the charges levelled against them. "Why does our justice system continue to fail women? Why is there no accountability for a system that allows violent men to roam free despite previous charges of kidnapping and robbery? "We are not dying because we aren't being careful enough. We are dying because our government is not doing enough. Where is President Ramaphosa while women are being murdered in their homes, on university campuses, in post offices, while going out on a date? Where is his leadership when we really need him?" Expressing the same sentiments, Mukhethwa Dzhugudzha said that the discourse about precautions should be shutdown. According to Dzhugudzha, Mongale was not reckless as she told her friends where she was going and even shared her location. On victim blaming and telling women to pick better, he said: "Abusers don't come with a label on their foreheads. They act like regular people... When you are telling women to be more careful, you are admitting that violence is normal and you're telling them to expect it from all men." He questioned why it is a woman's responsibility to avoid danger instead of violent men ceasing to perform cruel acts on a vulnerable population. "The truth is that women can do everything right, take every precaution and still end up like Olarato because it isn't women's judgment, it's men's entitlement" Presenting the fourth quarter crime figures for the 2024/25 financial year, police minister Senzo Mchunu said statistics revealed a decrease in murder rates but a rise in gender-based violence (GBV). Cape Argus
IOL News
3 days ago
- IOL News
Olorato Mongale's death: Why South African women can't simply 'be careful' to avoid femicide
Why women in South Africa can't just 'be careful' to avoid violence. Image: X Olorato Mongale, a 30-year-old journalism graduate and WITS student, was recently found dead after going on a date. Police have announced that they have arrested one suspect and are searching for two more. On that tragic day, Mongale was picked up by her alleged date, sparking discussions about the precautions that South African women are expected to take to navigate the country's femicide crisis. Women For Change founder Sabrina Walter told IOL that she is exhausted by the same cycle of grief, outrage, and hollow discussions that follow every femicide. "The conversation shifts to what she could have done differently, as if women are responsible for their own murders," she said. "I am tired of being asked what 'precautions' women should take when the real question should be: Why are men still getting away with murder?" Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Walter asserted that Mongale did not die due to a lack of precautions, but because men who were reportedly out on bail gained access to her and ultimately murdered her. National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said two of the suspects are currently on the run, Bongani Mthimkhulu and Philangenkosi Makhanya were previously arrested and charged for kidnapping and robbery. Mathe said the syndicate preys on young women at malls. "We are investigating a syndicate. These men use the same modus operandi where they approach these young women at malls and ask to take them out on dates. When these women agree, that is when they plan to rob them," she said. Walter questioned why these men were free after the charges levelled against them. "Why does our justice system continue to fail women? Why is there no accountability for a system that allows violent men to roam free despite previous charges of kidnapping and robbery? "We are not dying because we aren't being careful enough. We are dying because our government is not doing enough. Where is President Ramaphosa while women are being murdered in their homes, on university campuses, in post offices, while going out on a date? Where is his leadership when we really need him?" Expressing the same sentiments, Mukhethwa Dzhugudzha said that the discourse about precautions should be shutdown. According to Dzhugudzha, Mongale was not reckless as she told her friends where she was going and even shared her location. On victim blaming and telling women to pick better, he said: "Abusers don't come with a label on their foreheads. They act like regular people... When you are telling women to be more careful, you are admitting that violence is normal and you're telling them to expect it from all men." He questioned why it is a woman's responsibility to avoid danger instead of violent men ceasing to perform cruel acts on a vulnerable population. "The truth is that women can do everything right, take every precaution and still end up like Olarato because it isn't women's judgment, it's men's entitlement" Presenting the fourth quarter crime figures for the 2024/25 financial year, police minister Senzo Mchunu said statistics revealed a decrease in murder rates but a rise in gender-based violence (GBV). IOL News Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
The South African
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
'Haven't spoken to my children in almost two weeks': Denise Zimba
Actress and TV presenter Denise Zimba has opened up once again about the heartbreaking ordeal of losing custody of her two daughters. The actress has been involved in a custody dispute with her estranged husband, Jakob Schlichtig, and the court ruled in his favour. Taking to her X account, the actress revealed she hadn't spoken to her children in almost two weeks and expressed deep regret over her past actions that led to the situation. 'I haven't spoken to my children in almost two weeks. My biggest regret is choosing wrong and having my children live with the consequences of my actions.' Her followers flooded the comments section with messages of support and comfort. In March, the former Vuzu star lost custody of her two children to her estranged husband, Jakob Schlichtig. According to Women For Change, the Johannesburg High Court ruled on Friday, 7 March, in favour of Schlichtig, granting him permission to take the children back to Germany. The organisation also claimed that court documents stated the girls would suffer emotional distress without their father. Furthermore, it stated that Zimba and Schlichtig had returned to South Africa after welcoming their second child. Due to marital problems, Zimba remained in their Cape Town home while Schlichtig went back to Germany. He later initiated a Hague Convention case, alleging that she unlawfully kept the children. Before this, the actress had spoken out about the alleged infidelity in her marriage. She accused him of cheating on her with her best friend from childhood in a series of explosive tweets. DO YOU THINK DENISE WILL EVER LIVE WITH HER CHILDREN? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
News24
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
Minnie Dlamini seeks justice - ‘Words without genuine accountability are hollow'
Minnie Dlamini says she has been in deep pain after Mac G made derogatory remarks about her in the wake of her breakup with Dr Brian Monaisa. The comments, widely criticised by the public as misogynistic and degrading, sparked significant backlash, prompting Mac G to issue an apology, which some view as lacking sincerity. In his public apology, Mac G claims that both he and Minnie had exchanged distasteful words in the past and suggested they move one and 'squash their beef'. However, Minnie firmly refutes that narrative, stating: 'I have never made any negative comments or statements about this man.' She further emphasises that the timing of the apology appears to be more about protecting reputations than taking true accountability made in response to public scrutiny rather than genuine remorse. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Minnie Dlamini (@minniedlamini) Women For Change has taken a firm stand against the vile remarks made by Mac G, condemning the broader impact of his platform. The organisation criticised his podcast for having 'consistently promoted harmful narratives, disguised as entertainment, spreading sexual innuendos, encouraging victim-blaming and perpetuating blatant misogyny'. In response, they've called on sponsors and streaming platforms to take action and hold both Mac G and his team accountable for the content they continue to produce. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Women For Change (@womenforchangesa) In her statement, Minnie declares, 'As a public figure and a mother, I must act not only for myself but for every woman whose dignity is violated in the name of content and entertainment.'
The Star
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
MacG apologises to Minnie Dlamini after backlash over offensive comments
Masabata Mkwananzi | Published 1 hour ago Podcaster MacGyver 'MacG' Mukwevho's comments about Minnie Dlamini sparked accusations of misogyny and prompted widespread condemnation, leading to a public apology. Podcaster MacGyver 'MacG' Mukwevho has done an unexpected U-turn, publicly apologising to Minnie Dlamini after facing backlash for his offensive comments. The controversy began in one of the episodes of Podcast and Chill when MacG and co-host Sol Phenduka discussed Dlamini's breakup with her ex-partner, Dr Brian Monaisa. The conversation rapidly veered into controversial territory. "Why can't she keep a man? There's got to be something wrong with her — maybe her c**chie smells or something," MacG said during the discussion, adding: "It happens, man, especially with the hot girls." MacG's remarks quickly drew widespread backlash, with social media users, advocacy groups, TV channels like Moja Love, and even Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, condemning his behaviour and slamming him for using offensive language against women. Letsike cautioned that such remarks go beyond being merely offensive, stating they amount to a form of online gender-based violence, as defined in South Africa's National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. 'This incident is not a harmless joke or casual banter – it is a harrowing demonstration of online gender-based violence,' she said. The deputy minister voiced her disgust, describing MacG actions as part of a recurring pattern of misogynistic behaviour. She further revealed that multiple women have reportedly initiated legal proceedings against him. 'Women cannot be reduced to vulgar slurs and the objectification of the female body, as this is a damaging reinforcement of gender-based disrespect and consequently violence,' she said. Moja Love strongly condemned MacG's remarks, criticising his continued use of offensive language towards women. In a statement, the channel said, 'MacG's persistent use of derogatory language towards women, reducing them to vulgar slurs and objectifying their bodies is not just offensive, it is a damaging reinforcement of gender-based disrespect.' They added that such conduct has no place in society or the media, 'where voices should uplift, not degrade.' Women For Change also condemned MacG's comments about Minnie Dlamini, describing them as 'misogynistic and degrading.' The organisation expressed that his remarks were 'not only vile and dehumanising but also reflect the deeply rooted toxic masculinity that continues to endanger and humiliate women in South Africa.' Macg found himself in legal trouble before. In October 2024, he was hit with a R13 million lawsuit after spreading harmful rumours about amapiano artist Nkosazana Daughter. During a past broadcast, MacG insinuated that Nkosazana Daughter had an affair with musician Master KG and claimed that her child was fathered by him, not her then-partner, Sir Trill. MacG eventually apologised publicly after Nkosazana Daughter's family denied the claims, expressing regret for making assumptions based on a photo of the child. "We were wrong. She looks just like Sir Trill," he said in his apology. However, he also insisted that he had information from a 'credible source' claiming that Sir Trill was not financially supporting the child. In the podcast episode that aired on May 12, MacG issued an apology to all the women offended by his comments about Minnie Dlamini, saying it was never his intention to upset anyone. 'I want to apologise first and foremost to all the female chillers and just women in general in South Africa that I might have offended with that comment, that was not the intention. You know, we never say things to offend people.' He also invited Dlamini to join him on the show, saying she is 'more than welcome' to come on so they can 'squash it' once and for all. 'This thing started on the podcast, let's end it on the podcast. She said some things, I've said some things, let's squash it once and for all, bro,' said MacG. The Star
