Parole is not a given: It must be earned, assessed and accountable
When the state opens a prison gate, it does more than release an offender. It assumes a responsibility to ensure that the person being released can be safely managed in the community.
Parole is not an automatic right granted upon release from prison. It is a conditional step that must be earned, assessed, and held accountable. Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng, chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services, emphasizes that parole is not the final step in a prison sentence. It requires justification through law, credible rehabilitation, proper risk assessment, and protection of victims and communities.
Parole decisions must be based on evidence, not just completion of a program or attendance at counseling sessions. The severity of the offense, institutional behavior, prior crimes, behavioral change, support systems, and ability to follow parole conditions are all factors considered during the assessment process. The distinction between a prisoner's right to be considered for parole and an entitlement to be released remains fundamental.
Review mechanisms are crucial in ensuring that release is appropriate. The recent Griekwastad case highlights the importance of these mechanisms, as the offender's parole was initially granted but later reviewed and revoked following community representations. This case underscores the need for parole decisions to remain subject to scrutiny.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
