By Cassandra Dorasamy (Campaigner)
“If you don’t shut that mouth, we will shut it for you”, this is what Nomsa Sizani, human rights defender and member of Abahlali baseMjondolo (AbM) was told on 18 March 2024. Threats against her have escalated since then and forced her into hiding.
The threats started after Nomsa questioned officials who were in her community to speak about developments taking place there on 17 March. On 26 March 2024 she received a text message, saying, “We hope that Zikode [referring to AbM president Sibusiso Zikode] and Abahlali will be able to protect you from that big mouth of yours”. On 31 March, Easter Sunday, three men arrived at her home looking for her.
Nomsa’s threats are part of a disturbing pattern of violence and intimidation targeting members of the AbM movement. AbM activists work to improve living conditions for marginalised communities, addressing issues like housing and sanitation, but their efforts advocating for human rights have been met with corruption, harassment, and even murder.
Amnesty International South Africa is sending a letter to President Ramaphosa demanding a prompt, impartial, effective and transparent investigation into threats made against Nomsa’s life and for necessary measures to be taken to protect her?
As a community focused on defending human rights, especially in times of crisis — we have an obligation to act. Every letter sent could make a difference.
Amnesty International South Africa!
