By Marcus Moloko
Johannesburg Democratic Alliance (DA) mayoral candidate Helen Zille has called for life sentences for individuals convicted of rape where DNA evidence positively links them to the crime.
Zille made the call outside the Roodepoort Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where a 58-year-old Soweto pastor appeared for a bail hearing.
The man has been accused of raping a minor girl.
ALSO READ: Expert tells court Zuma-Sambudla’s posts celebrated July unrest
Addressing the media, Zille said the case was “disturbing” and “unthinkable”.
“It hardly bears thinking that a man who is a pastor, who has people come to the church in faith, trusted by the community, could be accused of such a heinous crime,” she said.
“A vulnerable child who placed her trust in him,” now faced a lifetime of trauma, she said.
Zille emphasised the need for stronger penalties, particularly in cases involving minors.
“If there is forensic
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Start your free trial today.
Start your FREE trial nowNeed help? molokom@insideeducation.co.za
 mayoral candidate Helen Zille has called for life sentences for individuals convicted of rape where DNA evidence positively links them to the crime.){kind=link}