Government welcomes Boeremag sentencing

Harsh sentences handed down to Boeremag members. Image: tiverylucky. Free Digital Photos

The charges arose from a right-wing plot in the late 1990s and early 2000s to overthrow the government.

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said the decade-long trial showed how the attainment for freedom and democracy has changed the lives of the people in the country.

South Africa is now a democratic country, which is safeguarded by the Constitution across the world and by the Bill of Rights.

Government commended the investigating and the prosecution team for its sterling work and hoped that these sentences would act as a deterrent to those who threaten the stability of the country's democracy.

Acting GCIS chief executive Harold Maloka said: "The Constitution recognises the injustices of the past and believes that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity.

"In this light, government calls for all South Africans to unite, join hands and strive towards a better tomorrow," he said.

"As a country, we have made great strides in changing the lives of South Africans and encourage all people to live together in peace and harmony," Maloka added.