Madam Deputy Speaker, hon Minister, the ACDP shared the concerns regarding the perception that Mr Yengeni was receiving preferential treatment, particularly following his hero's send-off.
We therefore welcome your announcement today, Minister, that you have taken serious note of the allegations of parole violations, and that privileges have been withdrawn as an interim measure, pending the finalisation of the investigation.
It is very important that all citizens are considered equal before and subject to the same law, and that all offenders are subject to the same parole regulations. If one breaches those conditions, sanctions must follow, no matter who is involved, to protect, as you pointed out, the integrity of the parole policy.
We must at all times be careful of sending out the wrong message that if you're politically connected, you enjoy special privileges, and are better treated than other offenders. I thank you.