By: Natasha Archary
Singwa Namhla Mtwa was shot 9 times outside her Mthatha home on 21 April, and her family are convinced it was at the hands of a man she was trying to leave.
Her death has sparked massive public outcry, highlighting the plight of gender-based-violence yet again.
Eastern Cape businessman Major Mfesane Bhekizulu, has denied that he is behind the murder of his girlfriend of 17-years.
However, Sanga Nozintathu Mtwa, Namhla’s sister has shared that Bhekizulu had abused her sister for years.
Sanga shared graphic pictures of her sister’s injuries, allegedly at the hands of Bhekizulu, where she was bruised and swollen, with a bloodied eye.
Screenshots of conversations between the pair were also shared, where Namhla asked Bhekizulu to allow her to rest and recover from the injuries she sustained from him.
She was unable to drive and had told him she needed to see a doctor and he allegedly responded that he would hurt her further if she did so.
The news of her passing triggered a response from many South African women, including Amanda du Pont, who said, “We speak for those who never make it out alive at the hands of GBV.”
“Namhla feared for her life and knew she may one day not make it out alive, which is why she had photographic evidence of the abuse she suffered.”
Amanda’s sentiments were echoed by thousands of South African women who are calling for justice for Namhla Mtwa, the 35-year old OR Tambo municipal worker.
It is further alleged that Mtwa was a state witness in a corruption case at OR Tambo.
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