Movement Against Rape complains against General Kanene, Joe Gwaladi
Movement Against Rape and Malawi Alliance of Feminists and Allies have protested against the performances of Zambia’s controversial musician General Kanene and Malawian’s Joe Gwaladi.
Kanene and Gwaladi are set to perform in a number of shows across the country organised by Club 24/7 in Blantyre.
Movement Against Rape has written Ministry of Home Land Affairs complaining about the performances of the two on Wednesday when launching 16 days of activism.
“It is with great concern that we write to you formally express our dismay of the impending visit of Zambian musician Clifford Dimba better known by the stage name General Kanene. While Kanene is ostensibly visiting Malawi for entertainment business purposes, we draw your attention to his conviction of rape, assault and gender based violence,” reads the letter in part.
Kanene was convicted for rape of a 14-year old girl and got a sentence of 18 years in 2013.
However, Kanene was pardoned by President Edgar Lungu in 2015.
The organisations have since called for action from the government as per the theme of 16 Days of Activism 2020.
“Visible action is required to show unified actions against perpetrators. We ask that the minister and taskforce to investigate the apparent abandonment of Galadi rape case,” the letter reads written by Zilanie Gondwe and Bridget Malewezi representing the two organisations.
Gondwe confirmed yesterday of the letter saying they wanted action from the government to show its seriousness in fighting gender-based violence but also being part of 16 Days of Activism.
“We have sent the letter to Ministry of Home Land Affairs, Gender and other players. This issue needs to be taken seriously,” she said.
The country has been awash with stories of rape and defilement forcing women organisations to march calling for action from the government.
Proprietor of Club 24/7 MacDonald Soko, said people have their opinions on the two and that they invited them to offer entertainment.
The shows start tonight at Vibes in Zomba before dating Zitherepano in Mangochi tomorrow and then Modern Park in Balaka on Sunday.
The shows continue on December 2 at Cape Maclear in Mangochi before coming down to Club 24/7 in Blantyre on December 4 and Chez Ntemba in Lilongwe on December 5.
The shows will see Kanene and Gwaladi also sharing the stage with Alleluya Band.
