In a powerful demand for justice, hundreds of women from across Berea took to the streets on Tuesday, marching to Teyateyaneng Magistrate Court to present their grievances following the brutal murder of a 29-year-old woman from Ha Kepi. The deceased was allegedly killed by her 33-year-old boyfriend, who was also a police officer.
The march began at the Blue Mountain Inn (BMI) hotel gates, the location where the tragic incident occurred on February 17. According to reports, the suspect fatally stabbed the victim after they had just left Berea Police Station, where they had been reunited following previous conflicts. The shocking act of violence has ignited widespread outrage, with calls for stricter punishment for perpetrators of gender-based violence.
During the march, women chanted in unison, demanding that the suspect be denied bail. Many also called for the re-introduction of the death penalty for such heinous crimes, arguing that stronger legal consequences could serve as a deterrent against gender-based violence.
Speaking on the matter, Ha Mokhothu Chieftainess Mrs. Mabakoena Mokhothu expressed deep sorrow over the killing, emphasizing that such acts of violence should not be tolerated in society. She noted that the broad daylight murder of a young woman was a chilling reminder of the urgent need for action, which is why they saw it necessary to join the march.
The brutal killing has reignited debates on women’s safety, gender-based violence, and the effectiveness of existing laws in protecting victims. Many are now looking to the courts to ensure that justice is served, as the suspect remains in custody.
The march serves as a clear message that women in Lesotho will not remain silent in the face of violence, and they continue to push for lasting change to protect future generations.
