The prisoner for votes release problem

In a country with so much violent crime, it shocked and disgusted many that our dodgy president, Jacob Zuma, decided in his 'great' wisdom, to announce a remission of sentence for certain offenders. In all, 37 783 prisoners were released, thanks to Captain South Africa's kindness to the dishonest.

Fast forward a month and already 47 of these are already in jail again for re-offending. Now, 47 would seem a small percentage and in terms of mere percentage, I guess it may be. Having said that, many have been re-arrested for serious crimes, like murder, attempted murder, rape and violent robbery. (other offenses are assault, kidnapping, stock theft, drug possession, housebreaking and possession of stolen goods).

One woman deliberately offended as she wanted to be re-arrested as she had nowhere else to go. Another male jail bird, was arrested for rape, allegedly committed due to him being 'bored'. One prisoner from Thohoyandou, was arrested for murder and assault, a whole two days after being released.
This is just the tip, of the dirty iceberg.

What this does, is places the public in danger, further impacts an already strained police force and justice system and adds further work to correctional services.

Once again, the government issues an empty statement through Zuma's hand puppet and presidential spokesman, Mac Maharaj, saying JZ 'had noted what had happened and would take that into consideration as we move forward.'......what is that supposed to mean?
Does this make the poor people who have been murdered and the affected families feel better because 'dancing queen' Zuma will take this 'into consideration'? What an idiot.

Sibongile Khumalo, the Correctional Service spokesperson, states pre-release assessments were conducted and they run pre-release preparation programs, aimed at assisting offenders with their adjustment, reintegration into society and social functioning'. She went on to say that the community must play a supportive role in rehabilitation. Great, so it is the communities fault in the end. Obviously these programs are not working very well, or are not really being attended by all those due to be released.

No matter what, and yes, it may be idealistic...but from the release of prisoners, one rape, death or assault is too much. There cannot be any reason why serious offenders are released early- end of story. Should our inefficient president, need votes, and decide to release crooks, surely it should be for minor crimes and not serious offences. This further leads the public to question his leadership. From comments on the radio, from letters in newspapers, from comments on news websites and from speaking to people, the Zuma administration is doing more damage to the ANC, than anybody has previously done. This release of hardened offenders and the subsequent re-offense of many (and many more soon I am sure), will not place any added confidence in his presidency.

We need a change of leadership, come December, because another four years under this circus of a leadership, will be worse than if the Muppets took over.