Gender Affairs Minister decries killing of young woman amidst the country’s observation of ‘16 Days of Activism’
The Minister with responsibility for Gender Affairs is speaking out against the upsurge in violence against women, as the country observes “16 Days of Activism.”
Minister Dean Jonas was making specific reference to the most recent homicide – that of 25-year-old Neltah Telemaque of Horsford Hill, Liberta.
Telemaque’s body was stumbled upon at a Burma Road dumpsite on Sunday morning, December 5, by a farmer tending to his animals. She had been reported missing the day prior, December 4, by her fiancé.
The young woman reportedly was found with a number of stab wounds about her body.
Since then, an All Saints man, Kevin Samuel, has surrendered himself to the Police, as requested, to assist them in their investigations.
Jonas, on behalf of the Government, sent condolences to Telemaque’s family, and said that any instance of gender-based violence is regrettable. However, when it results in the loss of life, it is particularly difficult to accept and process, he says.
Jonas adds that he is saddened by the fact that this gruesome act was committed at a time when “16 Days of Activism” is being observed. This global campaign is meant to raise awareness of gender-based violence against women.
He claims that this issue is a national priority and that Government will have to allocate time, as well as financial and human resources, to mitigating this type of behaviour and to protect the Nation’s women and girls.
Further, he says “the gross disregard for life that some individuals demonstrate … will not be tolerated … and accountability for these crimes has to take place to deter others.”
Meanwhile, Gender Affairs will be hosting a candlelight vigil on Friday, December 10, at 6 p.m., at the Edris Parking Lot to honour the lives of women who have died by gender-based violence over the years.
Please note that our News Room apologizes for the inaccuracies reported in an earlier story on Telemaque’s killing. Kevin Samuel is NOT the young woman’s fiance, and was not the person who alerted the public on Saturday. We sincerely apologize for any misunderstanding or pain caused.
