The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

In light of the Correctional Services Department's reluctance to answer any further questions on Schabir Shaik's medical parole, I have today, written to the Minister of Correctional Services, Ms Mapisa-Nqakula, urging her to have this matter reviewed. The correspondence follows below.


19 January 2010
The Hon Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula MP
Minister of Correctional Services
Private Bag X9131
Cape Town
8000

Dear Minister,

My letter of last week regarding the review of the medical parole granted to Mr Schabir Shaik refers.

On Saturday, your spokesperson, Mr Mbananga, was quoted in the media as saying that your Department would no longer answer questions on this matter, stating, "there has been enough communication regarding the Shaik issue. We have other work to do. The Department is done communicating about this." With respect, this is a most unhelpful attitude. The public is still in the dark about whether or not this matter will be reviewed and these issues most certainly have not been communicated.

There are two main reasons why Mr Shaik's parole must be reviewed by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board. Firstly, it is in the best interest of the public, given the number of reported irregularities that have emerged regarding the release of Mr Shaik and secondly, because it effects the credibility of the parole system as a whole.

The only way that this matter can be put to rest is for it to be reviewed. If there is nothing untoward about Mr Shaik's parole, then the minister has nothing to lose and everything to gain by sending it for review.

Kind regards,

James Selfe MP
DA Shadow Minister of Correctional Services