On August 11, South Africa’s former president, Jacob Zuma, adhered to an order to return to prison, only to be promptly released, adding another layer of complexity to his imprisonment for contempt of court.

Zuma, aged 81, arrived at an incarceration facility in Estcourt at 6:00 am but was released after about an hour as part of a “remission process” aimed at tackling prison overcrowding.

Correctional Services national commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale explained that Zuma underwent administrative procedures upon admission before his release.

The remission process is expected to result in the release of over 24,000 inmates, primarily those under correctional supervision and parole.

ALSO READ: Deadly explosion in South Africa, one killed, 48 injured

This initiative seeks to address overcrowding issues that pose risks to inmate well-being and security.

Zuma’s initial prison sentence of 15 months was handed down in June 2021 for his refusal to testify in a corruption inquiry.

He was released on medical parole after just two months, following protests, riots, and widespread looting that led to numerous fatalities. Subsequently, a court deemed his release unlawful and ordered his return to the Estcourt Correctional Centre.

Zuma is not only contending with his 2021 conviction but also facing separate corruption charges related to a late 1990s arms procurement scandal.