Magistrate in Malema case emphasises courts must balance deterrence, rehabilitation and societal protection [SOUND]

# The magistrate in the case against EFF leader Julius Malema in the East London Magistrate’s Court in KuGompo City, Twanet Olivier, says sentencing is the most complex stage of proceedings. She outlined key factors, including the accused’s status as a first offender. Olivier emphasises courts must balance deterrence, rehabilitation and societal protection, and adds sentences must reflect justice and mercy while ensuring crime is appropriately punished: