LILONGWE, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Civil Society Organisations and human rights defenders in Malawi Thursday took to the streets of the capital Lilongwe to demonstrate against increasing cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) against women.
The country has, for the month of August alone, experienced an increased number of Gender Based Violence against women, two of which claimed lives while several others resulted into life threatening injuries.
The parade was led by the country's Chairperson of Women's Parliamentary Caucus, Jessie Kabwira, who lashed at the GBV perpetrators, branding them cowards.
She said: "This demonstration is our disapproval against the barbaric acts of gender based violence against women which are perpetrated by cowards who fear successful and independent women, and in turn resort to physical violence against them."
A petition which the activists presented to the country's Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare has among others, demanded that the country's Head of State issue a statement condemning the increased cases of the gender based violence.
"As concerned citizens, we are in deep shock with the recent death of a young woman; late Miriam Siula, who was murdered by her ex-partner," reads part of the petition.
The petition was received by Deputy Minister for the country's Gender Ministry, Clement Mkumbwa, who promised to take it to the relevant authorities for necessary action.
Also present during the presentation of the petition was Speaker of Malawi's Parliament who urged the country's men to respect women's rights.
He also called for inclusive efforts between the country's citizens and stakeholders in addressing the issues of Gender Based Violence.
During the march, the activists were also joined by the country's Resident Coordinator for the United Nations, Mia Seppo.
