Graham Hopwood
THE majority of people in northern Namibia who have testified before a crime-combating commission, want the reintroduction of the death penalty for rapists and murderers.
The commission, which started public hearings in Oshakati this week, was told that the Constitution should be amended to allow the death sentence for serious crimes.
Those who did not support the reintroduction of the death penalty called for life sentences for rapists and murderers. All those who testified were against granting bail to people accused of serious crimes.
Those who have testified so far include business people, headmen, teachers, farmers, leaders of political parties and community leaders.
There was also support for the return of corporal punishment, especially for children who did not obey their parents, teachers or the law.
There was also a call for heavy sentences for those who defrauded the government. “We fought for our independence but now there are some elements who are spoiling our peace by raping and killing innocent people. The government must see to it that peaceful people are protected,” one person told the commission.
Witnesses said a new war was sweeping the country and criminals had to be punished.
There were also calls for one law in the land because of confusion over traditional and judicial laws. Some felt a referendum should be called so that people could air their views on crime.