In a debate on gender-based violence, some MPs questioned Parliament's role in fighting the scourge.

READ | Pregnant woman who lost baby after being stabbed by boyfriend fighting for her life in hospital

She said the EFF had called for the establishment of a committee dedicated to gender-based violence when the topic was debated last year, but nothing had happened.

DA chief whip Natasha Mazzone said women are giving up because there seems to be no use in reporting gender-based violence.

He said they come to Parliament every year, debate gender-based violence, and then clap hands.

"The South African Police Service cannot continue to remain complacent in the violence towards woman," said Sharif.