ANC WELCOMES THE GUILTY VERDICT AND SENTENCING OF THE REITZ FOUR

The African National Congress (ANC) welcomes the guilty verdict and sentencing of the Reitz Four by the Bloemfontein Magistrate's court today, the 30th July 2010.

The charges relate to their humiliating of five black workers in an initiation-type ceremony in 2007, which they filmed while living at the University of the Free State's now-closed Reitz men's residence.

The decision to sentence these four, for a fine of R20 000 each or 12 months' imprisonment is appropriate and befitting the crime they committed. This sentencing will also serve as a deterrent to any individual who seeks to undermine and humiliate fellow citizens on the basis of their gender, ethnicity, religion and social standing in the society.

On the same note, we also welcome the show of remorse by the accused when they pleaded guilty to charges of crimen injuria.

The ANC stands against any individual or any group whose intention is to undermine national unity and cohesion of the South African population, including undermining the democratic gains achieved since the 1994.

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, African National Congress National Spokesperson, July 30 2010

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