Babita Deokaran’s family, government and civil society gathered in Mount Edgecombe on Sunday to honour the slain whistleblower, while renewing calls for stronger protection for those who expose corruption.
Hundreds of people gathered at the Shri Mariammen Temple Heritage Site on Women’s Day for the unveiling of a memorial monument honouring the former Gauteng Department of Health official, who was assassinated outside her Johannesburg home in 2021.
Her brother, Rakesh Deokaran, said the family was grateful to those who had gathered to remember Babita and ensure that her contribution was not forgotten.
He said Babita never sought recognition, but her decision to stand against wrongdoing had left a legacy that needed to be carried forward.
“We are here is to ensure that Babita’s name does not go in vain,” Rakesh said.
