Neville Alexander. One of our correspondents mailed us an account of this case as it was reported in the Cape Times of Septeme ber 28, It is of interest in what it reveals about the character of South African "justice" which led the United Nations to demand the immediate release of all political prisoners. The account, of course, was carefully written to avoid any reprisals from the authorities:
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Brilliant City Man Accused of Sabotage
Dr. Neville Edward Alexander, one of the Cape's most brilliant non-White scholars who was detained under the 90-day clause in July, will face a charge of sabotage at a summary trial in the Cape Town Supreme Court on November 4,
The trial is expected to provide ‘sénsational evidence and it is understood that a number of prominent people will be involved,
Details of the charge are not yet- available but it is known that Mr. D.B.Brunette who, with Mr. J.E.Nothling, the Deputy Attorney-General © of the Cape, will appear for the State at the trial, has been working on the indictment for the past month,
Dr, Alexander, who studied at the University of Cape Town and in | Germany, was committed for summary trial to” the Supreme Court when he appeared briefly before Mr. H.J.Powell in the Cape Town Magistrate Court yesterday.
Parents Present .
Dr. Alexander, who is single, was dressed in a dark brown coat and fawn trousers when, accompanied by a policeman and several detectives, he was led into. the courtroom,. He was carrying a small suitcase and a paper parcel. ,
During the 20-minute hearing, he stood with his arms folded, rock~ “ing slightly back and forth. His mother and father were. among several non-White spectators who listened to the proceedings.
. After Mr, Brunette applied on behalf of the State for a summary trial, Mr. M.J,Richman, of Ress, Richman & Co., asked for bail on Alexander's behalf,
Bail Plea
He said that Alexander was prepared to accept any "stringent conditions" that might be imposed. He would undertake not to see any associates. ... “He is employed as a teacher and, as far as I know, his income is the mainstay of the family. I believe his sister is employed, but I understand that she is also detained under the 90-day Clause..."
Pamphlets Only
Mr. Richman said the charge against Alexander was one of sabotage, but according to the instructions the acts committed had not gone fur~ ther than the distribution of pamphlets.
"The last important aspect is that Alexander has been in gaol for 16 days, and during that time has been thoroughly examined. He has also not seen any people. A period at home would enable him to readjust mentally to face the trial in the Supreme Court."
Opposing the application, Mr. Brunette said the alleged act of sabotage was a serious one and has endangered the safety of the state.
"The Police are conducting widespread investigations which are not — yet finished. Other persons may appear in the investigations and there. is a serious danger that Alexander may abscond. Others in-this case have already absconded -- one has gone to Bechuanaland and another has simply disappeared."
Well Treated
eeeMr. Brunette said...Alexander had been well treated during his detention, and, as far as the State was concerned, “there is nothing — wrong with his mental condition."
“The magistrate refused bail.