Victor Ndabanyaya would have appeared in court on Thursday 29 August on charges relating to a domestic violence related incident in 2023 during which he allegedly assaulted his wife.
Instead, he appeared on the same date on a charge of murder after he allegedly beat her to death with a panga on Sunday 14 July.
Eric Ntabazalila, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority in the Western Cape, confirmed that the deceased, Nonthandazo (51), had a protection order against her husband.
A reliable source stated that Nonthandazo had obtained the protection order after a domestic violence-related incident in August 2023 during which the accused allegedly threatened to kill her.
Less than a year later, Nonthandazo passed away after reportedly sustaining fatal head wounds when her husband allegedly repeatedly hit her with the panga in full view of witnesses.
“We can also confirm that he (the accused) is charged with a schedule 5 offence. He abandoned his right to apply for bail and his case has been postponed until 18 October for further investigation,” Ntabazalila added.
Sadly, Nonthandazo is one of thousands of women who are allegedly killed by their spouse, boyfriend or intimate partner every year.
Reports state that a woman in South Africa is killed by her partner every six hours, the highest rate ever reported in research anywhere in the world.
Authorities say victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and domestic violence often do not report their suffering because they are financially dependent on their partner.
“Unemployment plays a big role,” said one source. “The victim doesn’t want to leave the abuser or for the abuser to go to jail because then they won’t get the money the abuser provides. Some feel having money is better than being abused.”
An official, who deals with domestic violence cases and protection orders on a daily basis, explained that before the Domestic Violence Act was amended, victims would often withdraw charges against their alleged abuser.
“With the amended act neither the victim or the state can withdraw these charges. Only the Director of Public Prosecution or authorised officials can do this.
“The stricter laws serve as deterrent because the abusers know they will definitely face justice should they be arrested and charged,” she stated.
Role players who assist victims of domestic violence emphasised that getting away from the abuser is often the first and most important step.
Failure to do this, said experts, could lead to the abuse escalating to the point where the victim suffers fatal injuries and dies.
The victim or anyone with knowledge about the abuse, can apply for a protection order at their nearest court. The police can also assist the complainant with retrieving their possessions, finding medical assistance and alternative accommodation, for example at a shelter.. To report GBV or domestic violence, contact the Hermanus FCS Unit standby number 082 522 1023. This unit serves the Overberg region.
You can also contact your nearest police station or visit the court for assistance.
