​The Gauteng Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment MEC Mbali Hlophe has called for full justice and reiterated the call for a harsher sentence following the death of Paula Mqoma, who died at the hands of her boyfriend.
The slain Mqoma (47) died at Pholosong Hospital in Tsakane weeks ago after suffering head injuries following an alleged fight between her and long-term boyfriend.

Hlophe, together with Social Workers, visited the family’s residence in Kwa-Thema, Ekurhuleni to offer psychosocial support and assured the family will be supported throughout their grief.

Paula’s mother could not hold her tears when she remembered how badly her child was assaulted. She pleaded with the government that the case goes to the high court so that justice is well served.

Addressing the media, MEC Hlophe said this was a very tragic case, and Gauteng Social Development is vigorous on matters related to gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has identified GBVF as one of the pandemics that we need to work around to raise consciousness of society particularly with males, to know that patriarchy, violence, and gender-based violence are not good for society,” said the MEC.

She added, “Whenever men go through their difficulties, they should never take them out on their female counterparts.”

“The Department has brought capacity in terms of social workers, working together with the family, because issues like these have a huge impact on the family unit. We want our professionals to try and retain the unit as much as possible.”

“The Department will refer Paula’s son to the Skills Development Programme so that he is able to provide for the family in future and not fall to the trap of substance abuse,” said Hlophe.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development will engage and have bilateral meetings with the Department of Justice, and Gauteng Department of Community Safety to make sure that this case is not one of those that are prolonged.