African press review 11 July 2014

The South African press is buzzing about rejection of parole for apartheid death squad commander De Kock imprisoned 20 years ago. And South African men prefer the World Cup to sex.

The South African press is buzzing about the justice minister’s decision to put the parole application of apartheid death squad commander Eugene de Kock on hold, pending the completion of due process.

The Pretoria News claims that this includes consultation with victims and families as required by law.

The Sowetan recalls that the ex-colonel, nicknamed “Prime Evil”, has already spent 20 years of his sentence to two life terms plus 212 years after being found guilty on 89 charges including murder, attempted murder, conspiracy, assault, kidnapping, illegal possession of firearms and fraud.

BusinessDay reports that Justice Minister Michael Masutha announced at a news conference in Pretoria Thursday that De Kock had "made progress" towards rehabilitation but the families of his victims had not been properly consulted regarding his parole.

The Mail and Guardian recalls that De Kock confessed his crimes to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission set up in 1995.

According to the paper, his testimony enabled police to recover the remains of victims and allowed them to receive a proper burial.

The Daily Maverick claims Prime Evil is staying in jail simply because of procedural error. It reports that De Kock’s application for parole will be considered again in 12 months’ time, adding that there was a good chance it will be approved then.

City Press says there are political undertones in the minister’s announcement appeared aimed at preparing public opinion for his imminent release.

For the Cape Times, De Kock is still a source of controversy in a South African society trying to come to terms with its history of evil. According to the paper some argued that it is unfair that he languish in jail at a time his accomplices escaped sanction, while others like ANC veteran Winnie Madikizela-Mandela remain vehemently opposed to a pardon.

The Sowetan reports that a shocking 72 per cent of married men have spent the past month turning their backs on their wives and partners, preferring to watch sweaty football players at the World Cup in Brazil.

This is according to the findings of a new survey by Ashletmadison.com. The survey also found that only eight per cent of the single males polled would be willing to miss the big game to have sex with a lover.

It also revealed that most men had prepared excuses for their wives or partners to avoid having sex; the top three being "I might miss a goal" (53 per cent), "I’m hung-over" (40 per cent) and "I’m too tired" (33 per cent).

However, there is some good news, says the Sowetan. The World Cup comes to an end this weekend then you will have the remote and your man back.