REOFFENDERS: ‘Review system on parolees’

WITH the conviction and sentencing of Thinavhuyo Magogodela (40), a resident of Haluvhimbi village, to two life terms and an additional 20 years' imprisonment, local traditional leader Vhamusanda Thavhayavhathu Masikhwa was among the first to applaud the Sibasa Regional Court for “standing firm against those who terrorise communities and abuse women and children”.

- SILAS NDUVHENI

Masikhwa urged the Department of Correctional Services to review the parole system, saying traditional leaders are concerned that many parolees end up committing new crimes after their release. The chairperson of the Real Man Foundation, Calvin Nengudza, echoed this call, saying his organisation has observed that a significant number of parolees tend to reoffend, sometimes committing even more serious crimes.

"In light of this concerning trend, we urge the government to critically review and possibly limit the frequent granting of parole.

It appears that many individuals are being released without having fully benefitted from meaningful rehabilitation programmes or shown genuine behavioural reform.

"A more cautious and evidence-based approach to parole decisions could enhance public safety and promote true reintegration for offenders,” Nengudza said.