non traceability of the records, want of
prosecution for Accused’s sentence and the
resultant prejudice to the constitutional right of
the Accused, he prays that the matter be
permanently stayed.” (my emphasis)
[12] Therefore, for the same reasons as quoted above, it is my view that
the prejudice that the accused might have suffered or stands to as a result
of the delay in the prosecution of his sentence is far outweighed by the
other factors of this case which include but are not limited to, the
seriousness of the offence, the age of the minor child, the interests of
society, and the fact that the prescribed sentence far exceeds the time he
has already spend in prison before sentence. At any rate, the sentence he
will get can be computed in such a manner that the said period is taken
away from the period he is yet to serve. Thus, this ground also falls off.
[13] Coming to the issue of the sentence itself, it is salutary to refer to
the remarks of the Court in the case of S v Rubie
8
which properly
reflect what is now established law. Therein, the Court stated thus:“Punishment should fit the criminal as well as the crime, be
fair to society and be blended with a measure of mercy
according to particular circumstances.”
8
1975 (4) SA 855 at 862