House Chairperson, let me use the language of the descendant of Musi and Mhlanga so that even someone who lives in Magomedzana will precisely understand what we are talking about. This law requires that there should be courts that will deal with sexual offences cases. Another thing we need to understand is that courts like this existed way back and that they were very helpful in speedily resolving cases of sexual offences.
There is a serious problem that exists and that confuses us now: young boys are raping elders and old men are raping young girls. There is this misleading information out there that a person who has HIV/Aids can have sex with a virgin and be healed. I want to say to the nation: "Don't listen to that; that is not true and does not exist".
Let me say again that we have passed a law that allows presiding officers in courts, meaning magistrates and judges, to pass minimum sentences. Therefore, when this law is implemented, those who are found guilty of rape will find themselves serving long prison sentences. That is why, as the ruling party, the ANC, we are supporting the passing of this Bill so that it will work. It will be helpful especially to women who are the victims of rape. And we have amended this Bill so that when we talk about rape, it should include everything that relates to private parts. Thank you. [Applause.]]
Bill read a second time.