Former president Zuma placed on medical parole

Zuma is serving a 15-month jail term in KwaZulu-Natal for contempt of court.

Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo says the department reached the decision after receiving a medical report.

“Apart from being terminally ill and physically incapacitated, inmates suffering from an illness that severely limits their daily activity or self-care can also be considered for medical parole.

“The risk of re-offending of released inmates must also below and there must be appropriate arrangements for the inmate’s supervision, care and treatment within the community to which the inmate is to be released.”

Nxumalo says the medical parole placement for Zuma means that he will complete the remainder of his sentence in the system of community corrections.

“Medical Parole can only be revoked if an offender does not comply with the placement conditions. We want to reiterate that placement on medical parole is an option available to all sentenced offenders provided they meet all the requirements.

We appeal to all South Africans to afford Mr Zuma dignity as he continues to receive medical treatment.”