Media statement regarding the Luyanda Botha sentence
18 Nov 2019
The Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services has noted that Luyanda Botha, who confessed to the rape and murder of UCT student Uyinene Mrwetyana, has been given three life sentences as well as five years for defeating the ends of justice.
The Western Cape High Court, on Friday 15 November, confirmed the plea and sentencing agreement which Botha entered which will ensure that he serves a life sentence for murder, two life sentences on both counts of rape and five years for defeating the end of justice.
In reaction to the sentence, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, said – “the greatest deterrent to crime is the likelihood that offenders will be apprehended, convicted and punished. The speed at which this matter has been concluded should serve as a deterrent to those who perpetrate crimes and who disrespect and undermine the rights of women.”
Our courts continue to mete out harsh sentences to rapists and in the last two years, more than 600 rapists were sentenced to life imprisonment and 1 500 rapists were sentenced to a period ranging between 10 and 19 years.
In addition to sentences being imposed by our courts, Government is committed to implementing measures to prevent and combat all forms of gender-based violence. Some of these measures include, amongst others, reviewing the domestic violence legislation, implementing measures to address femicide, and conducting gender-sensitivity training to law enforcement officials.
“By handing down this sentence our courts have sent a powerful message that such crimes will not go unpunished. Our criminal justice system must continuously demonstrate its capacity to protect the most vulnerable in society.
For society and the public to have confidence in the criminal justice system, it is imperative that perpetrators of gender-based violence face the full might of the law.” Minister Lamola said.
Issued by the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services
Enquiries:
Chrispin Phiri – Ministry Spokesperson
081 781 2261
[email protected]
See also:
- Ministerial task team on gender-based violence at universities set up
- From #metoo to #aminext – Addressing gender-based sexual violence in the workplace
- Gender discrimination and sexual harassment in the 21st century – What does the law say?
