Norman Tjombe writes:
It is shocking to read the comments on the social media pages by some – mostly young men – on the recent senseless murder of an innocent young woman in Oshakati. These comments tend to blame women for the murders by claiming that women are responsible for their deaths at the hand of their lovers and partners.
One Mr Haimbanga Ben-Hard Nas commented on his Facebook wall that “women should learn from this” and that he hopes “that at least 1 000 women will be killed this year by their mans (sic) until they behave well and change their mentality.” These comments are nothing but a dangerous incitement to violence against women. The comments are sexist, irresponsible and criminal, and the Namibian Police should immediately act to have the culprits face the full wrath of the law.
Women are human beings and bearers of rights. Their dignity and autonomy should be respected. No matter what a woman does, she should not be assaulted or murdered. To put the blame on women is only perpetuating the gender inequality and stereotyping of women, which breeds more violence.
Let all responsible and caring men condemn such behaviour and distance themselves from the likes of Mr Haimbanga Ben-Hard Nas. In a country where we have too few positive role models for positive relationships, we must not incite more violence, but actively work towards eradicating all forms of violence and discrimination against women.