Paralympian Oscar Pistorius, infamous for the 2013 murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, has been released on parole from a South African prison after serving half of his 13-year sentence.
Pistorius, now 37, shot Steenkamp multiple times, initially claiming he mistook her for a burglar. He was convicted of murder in 2015 after an appeal court overturned the original verdict of culpable homicide.
June Steenkamp, the victim’s mother, expressed acceptance of Pistorius’ release but emphasised that her family is the one “serving a life sentence.”
Pistorius will live under strict conditions until 2029, including a media ban and completion of anger management and gender-based violence programs.
While residing with his uncle Arnold Pistorius in Pretoria, the former athlete’s parole conditions restrict his movements and activities.
The parole board’s decisions, including mandatory courses, were welcomed by June Steenkamp, who affirmed her belief in the South African justice system.
However, she questioned whether justice had truly been served for Reeva and if Oscar had served enough time.
Pistorius, a double amputee known as the “blade runner,” rose to fame as a Paralympic gold medalist and competed in the 2012 London Olympics.
The tragic murder of Steenkamp, a 29-year-old law graduate and model, shocked the world and led to a protracted legal battle.
South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services stressed that Pistorius, despite his public profile, would be treated like any other parolee.
June Steenkamp expressed her desire to focus on the Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation and continue her daughter’s legacy.
Reeva’s promising life was cut short just three months into her relationship with Pistorius, leaving a void that time served cannot fill.
