MEC MATHABO HLALELE STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH GLENDA ROBERTS’ FAMILY AT ODENDAALSRUS MAGISTRATE’S COURT

By Staff Writer

• Free State MEC for Social Development Mathabo Hlalele joined the Kutlwanong community in a march to oppose bail for the alleged killers of social worker Glenda Roberts.
• Roberts was tragically attacked and killed during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
• The community united to demand accountability and reaffirm its commitment to fighting GBVF.

Free State MEC for Social Development Mathabo Hlalele joined members of the Kutlwanong community in a march to the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court to stand in solidarity with the family of the late Ms Glenda Roberts.

Roberts, a dedicated social worker, was attacked in Hospital Park on 24 November 2025 while on her way to catch transport to work. Her tragic death occurred during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), a period when the country intensifies awareness and advocacy efforts to combat violence against women and children.

Her passing has left a profound impact on her family, colleagues and the broader community she served with commitment and compassion.
The march aimed to oppose bail for the alleged perpetrators and to send a clear message that acts of gender-based violence and femicide will not be tolerated. Community members gathered in large numbers to demonstrate unity and demand that those accused face the full might of the law.

Addressing the gathering, MEC Hlalele emphasised the importance of solidarity and collective responsibility in confronting GBVF.
She encouraged residents to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of violent crimes are arrested and held accountable. She added that the strong show of support at court reflected the community’s rejection of violence and its firm stance alongside the Roberts family.

The march also served as a platform to promote unity and cooperation in the fight against GBVF, particularly in protecting vulnerable members of society.
The demonstration was supported by Tlasa Paballo NPO, the Vodacom Foundation, churches, local organisations and community members who had worked closely with Roberts. Representatives pledged ongoing support to her family and reiterated their commitment to seeking justice.

The case has been postponed to 19 March 2026 for further investigations. The Kutlwanong community remains resolute in its call for no bail for the accused and continues to advocate for justice for Glenda Roberts.
In standing together at the court, the community reaffirmed its commitment to ending gender-based violence and femicide, declaring that violence against women will not be accepted and that justice must prevail.