The majority of residents who attended a parole hearing for convicted killer Najwa Petersen, agreed that she should be released on parole.

The hearing, in the form of  a public engagement held at the Noah Centre in Lawrence Road, Athlone was facilitated by Athlone police station commander Junaid Alcock and the local community police forum. Her parole will be confirmed on 27 November.

Alcock explained the reasoning for this engagement. “This was an alternative way we tried to get the thoughts of the residents and neighbours in one place, instead of me having to visit them individually,”

Alcock told the Weekend Argus, “I must add that I could sense a lot of pain and hurt from both families and that is understandable. But I hope that tonight’s engagement could also help with the healing process as I thought it was a fruitful exercise,” Alcock added.

Petersen’s youngest son Suleiman Effendi, seen during the trial at times inconsolable as he watched his mother in the Cape High Court in 2006 appearing for the murder of  music legend Taliep Petersen, said his mother, as anyone in life, deserves a second chance. He said she paid her dues to society for the last 19 years.

Effendi confidently stated that he’ll take full responsibility for his mother and will ensure that she complies with her parole conditions.

“I basically want everyone to know we are ready to integrate my mommy back into society.  No one needs to be worried that they will bump into her at the shop as we will keep her at home.

“It will only be after some time that we will slowly integrate her back into the outside world. Whatever conditions are set out for her parole, we will adhere to it, and I will be responsible for it,” Effendi added. 

This was the general consensus of Petersen’s neighbours and fellow Athlone residents.

Mayco member for Water and Sanitation,  Zahid Badroodien, who was also in attendance, also weighed in on the discussions.

“I’m wondering if the board has given an indication about the support mechanism that will be in place and what type of community engagement will take place. We need to know if there are any assigned religious leaders or community groups or formal structures in place,” Badroodien stated. “the reintegration needs to run smoothly, so that she does not sit behind walls at her property, and I think the current and personal nature of the community needs to be considered,” Badroodien stated.

Taliep’s brother, Igsaan however asked why Petersen should get special treatment. “What makes her different?,” Igsaan asked. “Look, I sympathise with Najwa’s kids, but she should have considered their wellbeing before carrying out a hit on my brother,” he said.

63-year-old Petersen was sentenced to 28 years in prison for being the mastermind behind the killing of Taliep in their Athlone home in Grasmere Street in 2006.

Taliep was killed with a single shot to the head after being tied up with cable ties on the night of December 16, 2006.

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