Statement by ACDP MP, Rev Kenneth Meshoe

Issued by the African Christian Democratic Party

ACDP wants mandatory life sentences for child rapists

Jul 17, 2023

The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) calls on government to consider a mandatory minimum life sentence for child rapists in South Africa.

The ACDP’s call comes after the recent sentencing of 45-year-old Siya Qongqo, who was sentenced to five years in prison, eligible for parole in 10 months, after confessing to raping a nine-year-old girl at her home in KwaNonkobe in 2021.

We commend the National Prosecuting Authority for securing leave to appeal this shockingly “inappropriate sentence” before a full bench of the High Court.

It is deplorable how a self-confessed child rapist can be sentenced to a mere five years in prison, whilst a Rhino poacher is sentenced to 22 years in prison.

It is our hope that our courts effectively contribute to the protection of our citizenry, especially our children, and that it, in future, hands down no less than a life sentence to rapists – sending a strong message to sexual predators.

-ENDS-

Copy Link
Share
Share
Share
ACDP Mourns the Passing of Jayden Adams and Luqono Makwedini

ACDP Mourns the Passing of Jayden Adams and Luqono Makwedini

Jul 12, 2026

The African Christian Democratic Party is deeply saddened by the passing of two of South Africa’s young sporting champions, Jayden Adams and Luqono Makwedini, and extend heartfelt condolences to their families, teammates, coaches, friends, as well as every South...

The Speaker should protect the institution of Parliament

The Speaker should protect the institution of Parliament

Jun 23, 2026

Madam Deputy Speaker, on the 8th of May the Constitutional Court found in the Phala Phala matter that Parliament had failed in its constitutional duty of holding the President to account. It instructed Parliament to continue with an impeachment inquiry, emphasising...

The budget should reflect our deepest priorities

The budget should reflect our deepest priorities

Jun 23, 2026

Honourable Speaker, the ACDP believes that when you look at our budget, we should be looking at it as far more than just a ledger of income and expenditure. We should also consider it from a moral perspective. The budget should reflect our deepest priorities and how...

The Impeachment Committee must proceed with its work!

The Impeachment Committee must proceed with its work!

Jun 20, 2026

ACDP Parliamentary Whip and member of the Impeachment Committee, Steve Swart MP, has expressed deep disappointment at National Assembly Speaker, Thoko Didiza’s, decision to not oppose President Ramaphosa’s urgent application to interdict the Impeachment Committee from...