Kanya Cekeshe, the only #FeesMustFall activist behind bars, for his role in the 2016 student protests, is now eligible for early parole after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a Reconciliation Day special remission of sentences for certain categories of offenders.
In detailing who would be eligible for a remission of sentence, Justice Minister Ronald Lamola was clear that certain categories would not be considered — including those convicted of sexual offences, domestic violence and child abuse.
However, he said that Cekeshe — who was to become eligible for parole in February in any event – was from Monday immediately eligible. Cekeshe has been in Leeuwkop prison since December 2017, after he was sentenced to five years behind bars for public violence and malicious damage to property. He pleaded guilty to setting a police vehicle alight during a #FeesMustFall protest in 2016.
Cekeshe is one of about 9% of prison inmates who fall under the special dispens
Continue reading…
