ATM calls for South Africa to reinstate the death penalty

The African Transformation Movement has called for the death penalty to be reinstated in South Africa as part of its response to violent crime.

ATM Free State chairperson Tommy Ancell made the proposal at the party’s provincial rally in Bloemfontein on Saturday. The gathering was also used to unveil mayoral candidates ahead of the 4 November local government elections.

Ancell said the party wanted tougher action against killings and other serious crimes. He criticised political responses that stop at public slogans after violent incidents and said the country needed firm action.

Party sets out wider campaign priorities

The ATM also used the rally to call for changes to the education system and greater opportunities for people who are struggling to find employment.

Ancell said the party wanted long-term measures that would help communities become self-reliant. The remarks formed part of its provincial campaign as political parties prepare for November’s municipal vote.

Capital punishment is not part of South African criminal law. The Constitutional Court abolished the death penalty in its 1995 S v Makwanyane judgment.

The ATM’s call is a party policy position and does not change the current law. SABC News reported that the party did not set out a detailed process for pursuing the proposal during Saturday’s rally.

The Free State gathering also introduced the ATM’s mayoral candidates. The party is contesting the local elections on a platform that Ancell said would address crime, education and economic opportunity.

South African courts continue to impose prison sentences, including life imprisonment, for the most serious offences.