IFP Applauds Charges Against Reckless Magistrate

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

January 30, 2007

The Inkatha Freedom Party's Chief Whip and Spokesperson for Justice, Mr Koos van der Merwe MP, today welcomed the news that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will be prosecuting reckless Kimberley magistrate, Kubashnie Padayachee.

Magistrate Padayachee, released 12 awaiting-trial prisoners including two alleged rapists in September last year, as she argued that they already had been in custody for 48 hours and that she wasn't willing to work later than 4pm, because she was tired and hungry.

"The IFP is extremely happy to hear that Magistrate Padayachee will be facing criminal charges and we applaud the NPA in the Northern Cape for charging her with defeating the ends of justice," said Mr van der Merwe.

"It is very clear that Ms Padayachee has no respect for the South African Justice system and her actions showed that she has no regard for the hard work police do in apprehending dangerous criminals. The IFP hopes that this will serve as a warning to other magistrates and judges who think they are above the law.

"Magistrate Padayachee's prosecution is a victory for justice in South Africa and the IFP hopes for a favourable outcome and that she will be dealt with in an appropriate manner," concluded Mr van der Merwe.


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