Statement on the Decision of Botswana High Court to impose Death Sentence on a South African

Pretoria- South Africa has noted the decision of the Botswana High Court in Lobatse today, Friday 7 March to impose a death penalty on a South African Michael Molefe and his Botswana accomplice on a charge of murder.

In this regard, South African diplomatic officials in Botswana will continue to offer consular assistance to the South African national in prison. The Government takes cognisance of the court’s decision to grant the accused six-weeks leave to appeal the sentence imposed.

Accordingly the government will await the outcome of the appeal process before determining the way forward on this matter.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X512
Pretoria
0001

7 March 2008