IFP supports call for harsher sentences for violent criminals

MEDIA STATEMENT RELEASED BY:
MS SYBIL SEATON MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON FOR CORRECTIONAL SERVICES

September 19, 2006

The Inkatha Freedom Party's spokesperson for Correctional Services, Ms Sybil Seaton MP, today said she fully supports the Anti-Murder Campaign of South Africa's call on government to impose harsher sentences on those found guilty of violent crimes.

The Anti-Murder campaign marched on Cape Town's High Court recently to show solidarity against James Barnes, who pleaded guilty in a Cape Town court of murdering, raping and sexually assaulting a five year old.

Ms Seaton said the IFP fully supports this campaign.

"In light of the increasing number of murders and rapes in communities within South Africa, the IFP fully supports the Anti-Murder campaign's calls for harsher sentences for those committing violent crimes.

"We call on government, magistrates and judges to impose tougher sentences especially for criminals found guilty of raping and murdering innocent children and women," concluded Ms Seaton.


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Ms Sybil Seaton MP: 083 412 0075
Liezl van der Merwe: 083 611 7470