A 44-year-old woman from the Eastern Cape, South Africa, was recently cleared of all charges after allegedly killing the man who raped her disabled daughter.

The incident took place in Cacadu last month, and the woman was arrested but released on R500 bail. On May 5, 2025, she appeared briefly at the Lady Frere Magistrate’s Court in Emalahleni Local Municipality.

The Eastern Cape Premier, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, who attended the court hearing with the Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta, praised the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for their decision to drop the charges.

Premier Mabuyane expressed appreciation for the NPA’s thoughtful approach, acknowledging the trauma the mother experienced. He said, “We respect the legal process, but we also understand the extreme circumstances that led to this tragic event.”

He also noted that the case deeply affected the entire province and nation, emphasizing the emotional toll that gender-based violence takes on families and communities. The Premier stressed that no parent should ever be put in a situation where they have to defend their child from harm.

Mabuyane concluded by calling for stronger efforts to create safe communities where children and women can live without fear. He urged everyone, including government bodies, civil society, and men in the community, to take responsibility in ending gender-based violence.

The provincial government also promised to continue supporting survivors of gender-based violence by offering trauma counseling and access to welfare programs through the Department of Social Development and its partners.