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By Tshepo Ntsoelengoe

Football Journalist


Stellies player’s message against GBV 

In a country plagued by Gender Based Violence almost everyday, Stellenbosch FC midfielder Asavela Mbekile has sent a strong message to the women and children, apologising for the horrific damage caused by men.


Gruesome murders, including those of Tshegofatso Pule and Naledi Phangindawo, have sparked further outrage in the last  few weeks condemning the killing of women and children.

In Mbekile’s message, the midfielder cries for men to stop these barbaric acts.”

“I am sorry that I’ve put fear into your life,” Mbekile’s message,which was posted on the club’s social media accounts, begins.

“I am sorry that you feel unsafe around me even though I was meant to love and care for you.”

“I am sorry that I am the reason for your death even though you gave birth to me.”

“I am ashamed to call myself a man when so many of you are dying because of these hands.”

“Your tears weren’t what we were supposed to see.”

“I was raised by a strong woman (sis Thandi) who had nothing but did everything in her power to make sure I had everything.”

“ I have nothing but love from her, now I fear that she may go to the shops and never come back. I worry about my cousins too.”

“When they go out to meet their friends and partners, I am worried that it may be the last time I see them.”

“I am left with so many questions: Will I see them again? Do I wave goodbye?.”

“I worry about my beautiful wife when she goes to work. At work or at home these women are not safe. What is the future without women?

“Who will care for us when they are not around? Who will point us into the right direction when we are lost or confused?.”

“What have they done to deserve so much hate and violence from us? I know these are difficult and unbearable times for you.”

“I also know that you don’t trust me, but I am with you. Even though I will never know your pain. Your cry keeps me awake at night.”

“I beg you South Africa to stop this violence against the only people who have nothing but love for all of us.”

 

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