Zuma special remission: ‘Time for SOBER thought’
“The imprisonment of a former president who swore to uphold the laws of this land, for contempt of court, is a betrayal of the people of South Africa and it demands a SOBER response,” said Herron.
Brett Herron, serving as both GOOD party Secretary-General and a Member of Parliament, discussed the recent choice concerning the release of Former President Jacob Zuma and why it requires a sober response from citizens.
Just a few hours after his processing, the ex-president was freed through the Correctional Services remission process.
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Herron stated that Commissioner Thobakgale’s decision sends a strong message: everyone, no matter their role, must adhere to the law.
“This choice underscores that public officials, whether in the executive or public service, can’t exercise unchecked personal power.”
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IT DEMANDS A SOBER RESPONSE
Although the timing of his, and 9,000 other prisoners, will be questioned, we cannot deny that former President Jacob Zuma falls into the category of “elderly and vulnerable” and is a “non-violent” offender.
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Herron anticipated that certain political parties might aim to fuel outrage and exploit this decision, but he emphasised that the country shouldn’t be driven towards a thirst for revenge.
He stressed that imprisoning a former president who had taken an oath to uphold the nation’s laws, for being in contempt of court, is a betrayal of the South African people.
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He called for a ‘sober’ and measured reaction to this situation.
IF FOUND GUILTY, REMISSION SHOULD NOT APPLY
Speaking about Zuma’s ongoing legal position, Herron pointed out that the ex-president remains subject to serious criminal accusations.
He contended that if Zuma receives a guilty verdict and a prison sentence, the remission program should not apply.
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