Oscar Pistorius, the once-celebrated double-amputee Paralympic and Olympic sprinter, has been released from prison on parole more than a decade after the shocking killing of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. This controversial decision by the parole board in November, based on Pistorius serving half of his 13-year sentence, has reignited debates surrounding his culpability and the justice system in South Africa.

The Release and Parole Conditions
Oscar Pistorius’ release from Atteridgeville Correctional Centre, west of Pretoria, on Friday morning marked a significant development in a case that captivated the world. The parole board granted his petition, citing South African law that allows parole eligibility after serving half of the sentence. Pistorius is now subject to parole conditions until 2029.

Trial and Legal Battle
During the trial, Oscar Pistorius pleaded not guilty to murder and a firearms charge related to Steenkamp’s death. Initially convicted of manslaughter in 2014, a higher court overturned the verdict, upgrading it to murder and increasing his sentence to six years. Prosecutors appealed, leading to a further increase to 13 years and five months by South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal in 2017.

Eligibility for Parole
Pistorius became eligible for parole in March 2023 under South Africa’s “Restorative Justice” process, emphasizing offenders’ acknowledgment and responsibility for their actions. The release into the community corrections system involves attending gender-based violence programs and continuing anger management therapy sessions.

General Parole Conditions
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) outlined general parole conditions for Pistorius, including specific home hours, prohibition from alcohol and substances, and participation in programs identified by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board. Media interviews are strictly prohibited, aligning him with other parolees.

Victim Impact and Criticism Reeva
Steenkamp’s mother has been vocal about her dissatisfaction with Pistorius’ release. Despite expressing forgiveness, she doubts his rehabilitation and questions his version of events. Concerns have been raised for the safety of other women once Pistorius is released, emphasizing the importance of addressing behavioral issues during rehabilitation.

 Steenkamp Family’s Perspective
In her statement, June Steenkamp, Reeva’s mother, reflects on the enduring pain and questions the sincerity of Pistorius’ remorse. She highlights the parole board’s conditions, emphasizing the need for honest engagement with the truth for true rehabilitation.

Oscar Pistorius
From Hero to Fallen Figure Once celebrated as the “Blade Runner” for his carbon-fiber prosthetic legs, Pistorius competed in the 2012 Olympics against able-bodied athletes. While his presence on the track was initially hailed as a triumph over adversity, subsequent events tarnished his image, leading to the description of him as a “fallen hero” during his second court sentencing in 2016.

Oscar Pistorius’ release on parole has sparked renewed discussions on justice, rehabilitation, and accountability. The conditions imposed on him, the victim’s family’s reservations, and his journey from inspirational figure to fallen hero create a complex narrative that will continue to be scrutinized by the public and legal experts alike.