Zuma released on medical parole

Former South African President Jacob Zuma speaks to supporters after appearing at the High Court in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, May 17, 2021. Reuters/Rogan Ward/File Photo

The statement issued by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirming Zuma's release yesterday said: "Medical parole’s eligibility for Mr Zuma is impelled by a medical report received by the Department of Correctional Services. Apart from being terminally ill and physically incapacitated, inmates suffering from an illness that severely limits their daily activity or self-care can also be considered for medical parole."

Last month prison authorities said Zuma underwent unspecified surgery and was in hospital with more operations planned.

However, the details of medical report and his condition remain confidential.

"Medical parole placement for Mr Zuma means that he will complete the remainder of the sentence in the system of community corrections, whereby he must comply with specific set of conditions and will be subjected to supervision until his sentence expires," stated the DCS.