Rape always has to do with power. Where the alleged perpetrator is the former deputy president ? who has so much power ? it was clear to use that we need to have some kind of coordinated support for the claimant.

There's a culture of, 'Don't speak out, because I didn't speak out'. There's a sense that women have to keep quiet; that speaking out can be a betrayal to the person accused, to the nation, to the political party.

This case asks us: Who exactly is our democracy being forged for?

In South Africa, we have fantastic laws, policies, and structures that can compete with ? and even lead ? any country in the world, but there are massive groups in the population for whom stereotypes about sexual violence remain.

We must note that this judge is thinking in a progressive way. He is well read... and is really showing himself to be on the right track.

It also comes down to how society perceives the role of men, as opposed to the role of women. Men can do well to change these perceptions, and the violation of women's rights, by redefining their role as the dominant partner.