Letter: Justice system sends wrong message

THE South African justice system is a joke. I heard on the news the other morning that the architect of Nkandla (upgrades, I assume) who “technically” stole millions has been given a R10 000 fine and a suspended sentence.

This is just a slap on the wrist for what he did. People on the street who owe Mr Taxman less in back taxes have to pay fines higher than that and also have to pay back the money that is owed.

That sentence says it is OK to not pay taxes as you should, and that it is OK to steal from South Africans. What sort of message is that to send out?

This type of sentence will not prevent this type of thing from happening in the future. I mean really! Use millions that should have been accounted for, go to court, say “I do not have money to pay in”, get a R10 000 fine and a suspended sentence – most people would take that chance.

What we are really teaching the future powers-that-be in this country is that it is OK to steal and be corrupt. Not much is going to happen, even if you do get caught. Well done! The justice system should promote fair justice in this country.