Let justice reign no money must derail justice.
03 December 2015
The African National Congress Youth League welcomes the verdict by the Supreme Court of Appeal sitting in Bloemfontein on the matter of State v Pistorius . The finding of the supreme court, of appeal ruling that the trial court had erred on a question of law and subsequent conviction of Oscar Pistorius on the charge of murder is most welcomed by majority of our peoples
It is the view of the Youth League that such a decision will go a long way in giving hope to the many victims of violence against women and children which presents a continuous challenge to our society. We congratulate the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for its tireless pursuit of justice as mandated by the Constitution of the Republic. This indeed is a victory for justice and a victory for the criminal justice system in our country which has sustained attacks from all and sundry about its treatment of what is referred to as high profile cases. This defeats the myth that those with money are immune to the wheel of justice. Our constitution provides justice for all.
The Youth League calls upon the trial court as it welcomes back the matter for sentencing, that the court should impose nothing less than a minimum sentence of 15 years behind bars to the convicted murderer. The ANCYL believes that a decisive sentence, will restore the confidence our people have in the legal system.
Having recently concluded the 16 days of activism against women and child abuse, the ANCYL warns anyone else who wishes to venture into this act of cowardice, we wish to assure them that even if it takes long but the mighty arm of the law will eventually catch up with you. We call upon communities to work together with law enforcement agents in combating abuse against women and children. We remain firm and resolve to advance for a none sexiest, none racial, a free and democratic society. Gender struggle is struggle for all of us.
Issued by Mlondi Mkhize, National Spokesperson, ANCYL, 3 December 2015
