By: Natasha Archary
News that the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) has ruled that Chris Hani’s killer, Janusz Walus is set to be released on parole in 10-days has not been met with outrage.
Not only has the widow of the SA Communist Party, Limpho Hani slammed the decision, but so has the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
The Economic Freedom Fighters Rejects The Constitutional Court Ruling To Release The Murderer of Chris Hani, Janusz Walus pic.twitter.com/UREGnJgfoV
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) November 21, 2022
Walus shot Hani in April 1993, three times at close range, once on the chin, once behind the ear and once in the chest, while he picked up newspapers outside his house.
Hani’s killer was arrested and given the death penalty, but when apartheid ended in 1994 and the death penalty was abolished, Walus’ sentence was changed to life in prison.
After several failed attempts to be placed on parole, since his first parole hearing in 2011, the Polish killer turned to the ConCourt in 2020 who again denied him parole.
In an unusual turn of events, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo ordered Minister of Justice, Ronald Lamola to release Walus on parole, after serving 29-years in prison.
Listen to the conversation on Kaya Drive:
Zondo’s reasons that Walus is eligible for parole due to the following reasons:
- His behaviour and adjustment during his incarceration
- Walus has a clean record within the correctional centre
- He is a first time offender
- Has attended multidisciplinary programs within the correctional center to aide his rehabilitation
- There are support systems available to Walus and employment prospects for a transition back into society
- A clear report from psychologists and social workers
- Shows remorse for his crime
- Low-risk for re-offending
Hani’s widow says releasing her husband’s killer is proof that the justice system in the country is flawed.
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