Ramaphosa sets deadlines for GBV case and safety reviews

President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered a national operation to audit unresolved cases involving women and children and set deadlines for municipal safety audits, forensic-backlog plans and other measures to address gender-based violence and femicide. He announced the directives in a televised address on September 29, after a series of women’s killings in Ekurhuleni raised concern about public safety and the status of the investigations. Under the case-recovery operation, authorities are to audit unresolved murders, attempted murders, rapes and serious sexual offences within 60 days. Recovery plans for priority or stalled cases are due within 90 days, with outstanding investigative steps and responsible officials identified, Ramaphosa said. He also directed police and relevant forensic authorities to submit a funded plan within 60 days to address forensic-evidence backlogs, including staffing and equipment needs. Priority samples in cases involving women and children are to be fast-tracked, according to his announcement. Every municipality is to complete a women’s safety audit within 60 days, working with provincial authorities and police.