Murky world of rendition

In the murky world of rendition, diplomatic and economic ties have proven to supersede globally acceptable constitutional imperatives, if frightening incidents of kidnappings and killings of exiles in foreign countries persist unchallenged.

- Brian Sokutu

In most cases, these have taken place with tacit or explicit support from high-ranking government authorities.

Against this background, it becomes important to underscore the important role South Africa and the continent should play in finding an end to this scourge.

After dragging on for 14 years, this year has seen an end to the controversial Zimbabwe rendition saga, which implicated former top SA police officer Lieutenant-Colonel Lesley "Cowboy" Maluleke.

A local court recently sentenced Maluleke to an 18-year, wholly suspended term - a slap on the wrist for a serious charge.

Maluleke was convicted on four counts of kidnapping, one charge of defeating the ends of justice and five counts of contravening the Immigration Act, when he facilitated the departure of an illegal foreigner in contravention of the law.