Sophie de Bruyn calls for action against corruption and violence

To mark the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March, veteran activist Sophie de Bruyn issued a challenge to South African leadership at the Union Buildings. De Bruyn, who participated in the historic protest against apartheid pass laws, criticized the nation's current struggles with corruption, systemic inequality, and rampant gender-based violence.

De Bruyn emphasized that while the 1956 marchers fought racial subjugation, modern women face insecurity and abuse within their own homes. She urged the government to adopt a moral compass and called on the youth to use their voices and votes to combat poverty, unemployment, and homelessness.

The commemoration, themed ‘Empowered Women, Empower Nations’, included Nobel Peace Laureate Malala Yousafzai, who praised the legacy of South African women for their organized resistance against patriarchal and racial oppression. The event also highlighted the historical contributions of figures such as Charlotte Maxeke, Albertina Sisulu, and Lilian Ngoyi, who used education, politics, and activism to challenge injustice in South Africa.