The Constitutional Court has ruled that Janusz Walus - who gunned down South African Communist Party (SACP) leader Chris Hani nearly 30 years ago - should be released on parole within 10 days.

In handing down judgment, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo said Justice Minister Ronald Lamola’s decision was irrational and should be reviewed and set aside.

Zondo said more than 15 years had passed since Walus had become eligible for parole.

He said Walus apologised to the family more than once. Walus approached the apex court to review Lamola’s decision on 16 March 2020 not to approve his release on parole.

The Polish immigrant is serving a life sentence at the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Facility for the murder of anti-apartheid activist Hani in 1993.