The FF Plus says in light of the sixteen days of activism against women and children, the justice system has failed South Africa’s wives and children again.

This comes after bail of R15 000 was granted to a Mossel Bay teacher, who was arrested in connection with nineteen counts of rape, sexual assault and sexual preparation of minors.

According to the FF Plus’ provincial spokesperson in the Western Cape, Advocate Lennit Max argued in court that he could be released on bail because he was not a suicide risk as he said it was a “sin”.

Max believes this obviously indicates the person’s lack of distinction between what is sin as it is also wrong to commit sexual acts with minors. He says a minor bail amount as in this case sends a clear message that violence against women and children will not be eradicated.

“Suspected offenders will hardly be deterred when punishment or bail conditions are nothing more than a rape.”

He says although the FF Plus stands by the principle that someone is innocent until he or she is convicted, the party believes that penalties and bail values in this kind of cases should be as heavy as possible.

“Borgtog aan vermeende verkragter laat vroue en kinders in die steek” – Pretoria FM