South African Justice System In Total Disarray

MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY:
MR KOOS VAN DER MERWE MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON ON JUSTICE

February 7, 2007

The Inkatha Freedom Party's Chief Whip and Spokesperson on Justice, Mr Koos van der Merwe MP, said he was alarmed to read about yet another violation of human rights, by the Department of Justice - in what can only be described as the latest in a series of serious blunders coming to light.

Sapa reported that Mr L Khumalo was kept in prison for 18 months after he won his appeal against his conviction. Mr Khumalo never received a response from the Germiston magistrate's court regarding the outcome of his appeal lodged in 2003. The Public Protector, who investigated the matter, recommended that he receive compensation.

"It is clear that the Department of Justice is in a total state of disarray," said Mr van der Merwe.

"Yesterday we learned of three prisoners, who have spent anything from four to ten years behind bars, waiting for their trials to start or for their appeals to be heard. Now, the absolutely heart-wrenching story of Mr L Khumalo, who spent 18 months in jail as an innocent man. It's absolutely ridiculous! We need answers from Minister Mabandla urgently," said Mr van der Merwe.

"It begs the question - is our justice system in South Africa one who protects the rights of the people or a totally unjust system? I am sure if you start digging around you will find hundreds of similar cases.

In conclusion Mr van der Merwe said: "The IFP would like to know from the Justice Minister what steps will be taken against those that were found negligent in the Public Protector's investigation. And what measures will be put in place to prevent similar human rights violations?"

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Mr Koos van der Merwe MP: 082 444 4944
Liezl van der Merwe: 083 611 7470