Gqeberha rapist sentenced to eight life terms in landmark ruling
The Gqeberha High Court has sentenced Moses Gqesha, 45, to eight life terms following his conviction on 12 charges, including rape, kidnapping, and robbery, in a case that has gripped the nation and sparked renewed calls for justice in gender-based violence cases.
Gqesha was found guilty of the brutal rape of activist and businesswoman Andisiwe Kawa, a well-known advocate and entrepreneur. The court heard that in 2020, Gqesha lured Kawa under false pretenses, claiming to be a building contractor interested in a business collaboration. He later kidnapped her at gunpoint, held her captive, and repeatedly assaulted her over several days. During this time, he also robbed her of personal belongings and subjected her to psychological torment.
Delivering the sentence, the judge described the crimes as “calculated, callous, and cruel,” rejecting the defense’s plea for leniency. The court emphasized the lifelong trauma inflicted on the survivor and the importance of holding perpetrators fully accountable.
The ruling has been hailed as a milestone in South Africa’s ongoing battle against gender-based violence. Women’s rights groups have praised the sentence, calling it a long-overdue example of the justice system taking a firm stand against such heinous crimes.
Kawa’s ordeal and the trial have reignited conversations nationwide about the safety of women, systemic failures, and the urgent need for stronger protections for survivors of violent crimes.