Death penalty is a good thing? Interesting; I don't see how.
Low taxes is a good thing? Interesting; I always thought low taxes = poor infrastructure and shoddy social programs.
Edit: Again, to anyone who would watch the video, I'd advise against it if you're a very sensitive person. It's a little disturbing.
YouTube - South Africa: Confessions of a Killer
For deterrence and some people just can't be helped back onto the right path easily... Besides.. in prison, you'll just be placing the worst elements of society together.
On taxes... it really depends on the specifics of the country. If the leadership is already corrupt in the first place... doesn't really matter, but generally you're right. To me, it's more important that the tax be progressive to some extent while not discouraging the more wealthy to pursue further wealth while at the same time not being overly harsh (flat tax) on the poor.