Ramaphosa orders nationwide reviews after Ekurhuleni killings

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered nationwide reviews of unresolved cases involving women and children and safety audits in every municipality, setting deadlines of 60 and 90 days for the first steps and follow-up action. He announced the measures in a televised address on September 29, following multiple women’s deaths in Ekurhuleni that have prompted renewed concern about safety and the handling of gender-based violence cases. Under the directives, authorities are to audit unresolved murders, attempted murders, rapes and serious sexual offences involving women and children within 60 days. Within 90 days, they are to prepare recovery plans for priority or stalled cases, identifying remaining investigative steps, responsible officials and deadlines, Ramaphosa said. Police and forensic authorities must also produce a funded plan within 60 days to address evidence backlogs, including staffing and equipment needs. Priority samples in cases involving women and children are to be fast-tracked.