DA protests against prostitute comment

MBOMBELA – The controversy caused by a dress during a legislature sitting on March 31 will not be let to die a silent death by the Democratic Alliance Women’s Network (DAWN).

The DA marched to legislature on Tuesday, demanding that the speaker of the legislature, Ms Thandi Shongwe, apologise for condoning the sex-worker dress remarks.

This after DA member of provincial legislature, Ms Jane Sithole, was told by Mr Victor Windoel, an ANC member of provincial legislature, to cover herself up because she was dressed like a prostitute.

“It is saddening that after all that South Africa has been through, we still have to march for the rights and dignity of women to be protected and respected.

It’s a shame to note that the speaker herself as a woman, and in her position, laughed at the horrible remarks, therefore the whole country laughed with her and humiliated our member,” said DA provincial leader, Mr Anthony Benadie.

Sithole has vowed to wear the same dress that had caused the controversy until the speaker apologises for condoning the remarks. “I will wear this dress for a year if I have to.

This was uncalled for and we demand an apology from the speaker. You would expect her to defend women’s rights because she is a woman, and especially in her position. We also demand that she orders Mr Windvoël to withdraw his remarks unconditionally,” she said.

The memorandum was received by Mr David Dube, deputy speaker of the legislature, in absence of the speaker.

“The speaker is not here to receive the memorandum today, but we will receive it on her behalf. We can also assure you that this will be handed to the relevant parties and the grievances will be attended to in due time,” said Dube.

The DA has vowed to continue marching and voicing out its objections until its demand has been addressed.