Schabir Shaik's family say they are disappointed but haven't given up the fight as they look to other avenues such as getting the convicted fraudster a reduced sentence or early release.

Yesterday, the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg dismissed Shaik's application to appeal against his 15-year sentence for corruption and fraud.

In an interview with SAfm, broadcast this morning, Mo, Shaik's brother, said the family was looking at Department of Correctional Services legislation and how they could help Shaik.

He made special reference to his crime being of a "non-violent nature".

Mo Shaik said his brother had taken the news of his failed appeal bid "with brave dignity". "He didn't break down," he said.

He added that he and his brother's family had gone to see him at Westville Prison to break the news to him and to discuss "our possible options".

"His 15-year sentence is shockingly harsh and we are looking at what options we have in that regard," he said.

Earlier, Mo said his brother had prepared for yesterday's judgment with prayer and fasting. "We knew this day would come … and the fact is that he's not in prison for murder, he's not in there for rape. It's not the end of hope," he said.

Shaik's charges related to payments he and his 10 companies made to Jacob Zuma "to secure his political influence for their financial benefit", the background to the judgment read.

With acknowledgement to Sapa and Cape Argus.