Free pass for powerful when it comes to court
The numerous reports of the public protector and auditor-general reveal that the powerful and influential brazenly subvert the criminal justice system. The powerful are not subjected to penal harshness. With a few exceptions they are gifted not merely with leniency but full-scale immunity from criminal prosecution.Thus the most egregious crimes of the last 20 years have been fully shielded from prosecution.Those with money and power have always enjoyed substantial advantages in our justice system.Lip service was paid to the core precept of the rule of law: that regardless of position all stand equal before justice.The preconditions for a successful prosecution are an impartial and independent investigation , and an equally independent prosecuting agency. These are the sine qua non for a functioning criminal justice system. ..
There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.
From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.
For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.
Already subscribed? Sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.