By: Natasha Archary

June Steenkamp, the mother of Reeva Steenkamp who was murdered by Oscar Pistorius, has shared a statement on the former Paralympian’s release from prison.
Sharing sentiments on behalf of her late husband, Barry Steenkamp, June said there can never be justice if your loved one is never coming back, and no amount of time served will bring her daughter back.
“Now, almost 11-years later, the pain is still raw and real, and my dear late husband Barry and I have never been able to come to terms with Reeva’s death, or the way she died.
We have always known that parole is part of the South African legal system, and we have always said that the law must take its course.
Oscar Pistorius’ release on parole subject to certain conditions, has affirmed Barry and my belief in the South African justice system.
The conditions imposed by the parole board, which includes anger management courses and programs on gender-based violence, send out a clear message that gender-based violence is taken seriously.
Has there been justice for Reeva? Has Oscar served enough time? There can never be justice if your loved one is never coming back, and no amount of time served will bring Reeva back.
We, who remain behind, are the ones serving a life sentence.
With the release of Oscar Pistorius on parole, my only desire is that I will be allowed to live my last years in peace with my focus remaining on the Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation, to continue Reeva’s legacy.”
June Steenkamp on Oscar’s release
The Steenkamp’s model daughter was gunned down in Oscar’s Pretoria home on 14 February 2013.
Oscar was sentenced to 6 years in 2014 for shooting his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, and had his sentence increased to 13 years and 5 months in 2017.
He was granted parole by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board (CSPB) on 24 November, and on Friday, 05 January, the Department of Correctional Services confirmed that the “blade runner” has been released and is home.
Also read: Oscar Pistorius Timeline: From Paralympic Glory to 2023 Parole



