Woman's death ends five-year homicide-free period in Praia
Celeste Cunha, 64, was allegedly killed on October 28, ending a five-year period without gender-based violence homicides in Cape Verde's capital.
Celeste Cunha, 64, was allegedly murdered on the night of Wednesday, October 28, in Praia's Castelão neighborhood. The incident, linked to gender-based violence (VBG), prompted condemnation from the Cape Verdean Institute for Gender Equality and Equity (ICIEG) and the Cape Verdean Association for the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence (ACLCVBG). This death marks the end of a five-year period without homicides associated with VBG in the capital city.
The ICIEG expressed sorrow over Cunha's death and reiterated calls for a zero-tolerance policy towards gender-based violence. The institution stated that the case highlights the ongoing need to strengthen prevention efforts and the response capacity of victim support entities. The ICIEG is coordinating with relevant authorities and, with the Cape Verdean Institute for Children and Adolescents (ICCA), is providing psychological support to secondary victims, including the victim's daughter and a minor granddaughter.
The ACLCVBG also condemned the event, warning about the severity of violence against women within family settings. The association called for a swift and thorough investigation, demanding that the alleged perpetrator be brought to justice. Both organizations are urging for increased societal awareness and improved services for victims and secondary victims.