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
Science-centred, public-private partnerships need implementation

Science-centred, public-private partnerships need implementation

Aug 26, 2026

House Chairperson, the ACDP views the Minister's vision of a science-centred public-private partnership as attractive in principle, but we must judge the statement and government not by the elegance of policy language, but by its record of implementation. The Minister...

ACDP supports motion of no confidence in Speaker

ACDP supports motion of no confidence in Speaker

Aug 26, 2026

Deputy Speaker, in a damning judgement, the Constitutional Court found that Parliament had acted unlawfully in not holding the President to account for the Phala Phala scandal. In instructing Parliament to continue with the impeachment, it emphasised that the National...

Killing of former world boxing champion Zolani Tete condemned

Killing of former world boxing champion Zolani Tete condemned

Aug 23, 2026

The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) strongly condemns the fatal shooting of former South African boxing world champion Zolani Tete, who was killed outside his home in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, on 21 August 2026. According to reports, Tete was in his vehicle...

PSIRA must ensure stronger compliance in the private security sector

PSIRA must ensure stronger compliance in the private security sector

Aug 21, 2026

House Chairperson, in the Police Committee's report on the performance of the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) for 2024/25, the committee raised concerns over weak oversight and the need for stronger compliance in the private security sector. In...