ANC statement on Selebi's medical parole

20 July 2012

The African National Congress welcomes and respects the decision by the Medical Parole Board comprising eleven doctors who recommended that Jackie Selebi the former Commissioner of Police be granted parole on medical grounds.  The decision by the Medical Board was unanimous and was informed by the gravity of the health condition of Comrade Selebi, it would have been insensitive and inhuman of the Minister Sbu Ndebele  and the former Minister of Correctional Service, Ms. Nosiviwe Maphisa-Nqakula not to accept the recommendations.

As the ANC we are satisfied that the parole was granted on its merit after twelve cases were presented for consideration to the board, and that it will assist in the effective care of Comrade Selebi.  South Africa as a democracy subscribes to internationally determined practices that make provision for a humane treatment of prisoners.  In this regard Mr. Selebi will be able to access medical treatment without hinderance within the conditions imposed.

We join the rest of the South Africans in wishing Jackie Selebi recovery and stable health as he is confronted by ill-health. Those who are doubtful about the correctness of the decision to release Selebi on medical grounds, can indeed access the records of the Medical Parole Board.

Statement issued by Jackson Mthembu, ANC National spokesperson, July 20 2012

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