Presidential pardon on the cards for Polokwane inmates
Offenders who have been classified as dangerous, offenders with further charges that haven't made bail, and offenders who have escaped or ran away, will not qualify.
POLOKWANE – Despite no confirmed positive cases of Covid-19, the Polokwane Correctional Centre will be considering the release of some of its inmates, should they meet the requirements for a presidential pardon.
This, after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced last week that inmates who have passed their minimum detention period will be released from prisons which were considered high-risk areas of infection due to overcrowding. The announcement leads to the release of 19 000 inmates before serving their full sentences.
The centre’s Communications Officer, Sachiel Nemafhohoni confirmed that the centre will determine how many inmates will be released, but that they are awaiting communication from a national level.
According to a statement released by the Presidency, the presidential parole dispensation would apply to low-risk inmates who have already served their minimum sentence, or who would approach this period in the next five years. The arrangement excludes inmates sentenced to life imprisonment or serving terms for serious crimes, including sexual offences, murder and attempted murder, gender-based violence and child abuse.
“Our Area Commissioner will evaluate who qualifies in line with what the president stated, and from there a decision will be made on their release.
“Nemafhohoni confirmed that offenders who have been classified as dangerous, offenders with further charges that haven’t made bail, and offenders who have escaped or ran away, will not qualify.
Earlier, Justice Minister, Ronald Lamola said the most vulnerable inmates, such as those with underlying health problems, the elderly and women with infants, as well as those who committed crime in need such as shoplifting, theft and trespassing would be prioritised. In addition, the Department of Correctional Services’ Spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo said once released, parolees would also be eligible to apply for the social relief grant like any other citizens.”
Inmates will be released after all the necessary processes have been followed, Nxumalo said.
