Media Statement: Rights of criminals should not be protected

African Christian Democratic Party leader Reverend Kenneth Meshoe

4 June 2003

Deputy President Jacob Zuma's statement that criminals should not be allowed to hide behind the constitution when they have violated the rights of others is justified.

"While arrested suspects are innocent until proven guilty, the constitution is not there to protect those once have been convicted and we agree that criminals should not call on the protection of the Constitution when they have violated the rights of others," Reverend Meshoe said.

"We believe criminals should lose certain rights after conviction and should be made to pay for the damage they have caused, either during their sentence or after their release.

"Although Zuma's statement might not have been politically correct, we advise he stay strong and stand his ground. It is time that the truth was spoken, not political correctness. Drastic steps are necessary to reduce the high crime rate in South Africa.

"The sooner criminals realise they cannot rely on the protection of the Constitution, the sooner they will learn to respect the rights of others," Reverend Meshoe said.



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For more information: Rev Kenneth Meshoe MP at 082 962 5884
Media Liaison: Charmaine Horne at 084 370 3550 or 021 403 3307