South Africans are being called upon to stand up for truth and justice by wearing a black ribbon on 9 August to honor the life, legacy, and courageous stance against corruption of slain whistle-blower Babita Deokaran.
The nationwide movement is being spearheaded by the Mount Edgecombe Arts and Cultural Council (MEACC) and the Shri Mariammen Temple Society, who will officially unveil a permanent monument to Deokaran on Women's Day. Proceeds raised from the sale of the commemorative black ribbons will go directly towards funding the memorial structure.
"This is a movement to inspire young people, women, community leaders, and future generations to stand for honesty, justice, and ethical leadership, and to ensure that future generations never forget her sacrifice," said MEACC Chairperson Neermala Thool.
Deokaran was the Chief Director of Financial Accounting at the Gauteng Department of Health when she was assassinated outside her Johannesburg home on 23 August 2021. She was a crucial state witness assisting investigators probing large-scale procurement corruption involving personal protective equipment at Tembisa Hospital.
While six hitmen were arrested days after the shooting and have since been sentenced for murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit murder, the search for the mastermind or masterminds who orchestrated the hit remains ongoing.
