PPA Outraged Over Lenient Sentence For Hit-And-Run Driver

The Pedal Power Association (PPA) has expressed outrage following a lenient sentence handed down to Garth Pasha, a South African Navy official, for his role in a hit-and-run crash that severely injured cyclist Dewald van der Westhuizen.

The incident leading to the sentence took place on December 21, 2023, when Pasha rammed into van der Westhuizen and his coach, Mike Moriarty, while they were cycling along Main Road in Glencairn.

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CCTV footage of the crash showed the two cyclists being struck by a white VW Polo, which then fled the scene.

Van der Westhuizen suffered significant injuries and required multiple surgeries to treat a leg injury.

Court’s Controversial Ruling On Pasha

Pasha, aged 28, was arrested shortly after the incident and later pleaded guilty to charges of reckless driving and failure to stop at the scene of the accident.

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Despite the severity of the crash and the long recovery process described by van der Westhuizen, Pasha was fined R20,000 or 12 months’ imprisonment, with R10,000 suspended on the condition that he does not commit the same offence over the next five years.

He also received a R3,000 fine or a three-month imprisonment sentence for the second count.

Additionally, Pasha’s driver’s and firearm licenses were reinstated.

This lenient sentence has sparked outrage from the PPA, with CEO Neil Robinson condemning it as inadequate.

Robinson emphasized that the punishment fails to reflect the severity of the crime, sending the wrong message to potential offenders.

“The sentence is sorely lacking in severity, and it does not send a strong enough deterrent message to would-be criminals.

“It allows people to break the law with little consequence, Robinson said.

PPA Calls For Stronger Action On Road Safety

Robinson also expressed deep concern about the safety of cyclists on South African roads, describing the current situation as “intolerable.”

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The PPA has long advocated for improved protection for vulnerable road users, especially cyclists, who are often at risk while following the rules of the road.

He pointed to the Western Cape’s 1-meter passing law, which aims to protect cyclists, but noted that more action is needed from law enforcement and prosecuting bodies.

“The current laws and enforcement are not enough to protect cyclists,” Robinson added. “We need authorities to take a more serious stance on road safety to prevent further incidents like this.”

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