eMBALENHLE – The Department of Correctional Services hosted the Public Victim Offender Dialogue (PVOD) programme at the eMbalenhle Sasol Club on Thursday, 14 March.
PVOD is aimed at strengthening the current rehabilitation and reintegration programmers of the department, by placing the victim at the centre of the correction process.
It provides a restorative conflict resolution process that actively involve the victim and offender in repairing the emotional and material harm caused by a crime.
It also provides a chance for a victim and offender to discuss the offence, get answers to the questions, express feelings and gain a greater sense of closure.
During the event the offenders were given a chance to explain the crime they committed and apologised to their victims.
Amos Mbonani from Leandra was one of the offenders who had a chance to apologise to his victims for the murder he committed in 2010.
He was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment.
Mbonani apologised to the Xulu-family for killing their daughter, who was the mother of his children.
He blamed his actions on jealousy and alcohol.
“What I did was so horrible and so permanent, there is nothing I can say or do that will change anything.
“No matter how sorry I am for what I did, I know it will not bring your daughter back to life.
“May you find it in your heart to forgive me.” The Xulu-family forgave Amos and urged him to never repeat his actions.
Mbonani promised them that he is a changed man and that helearned a lot in custody.
The event was attended by traditional leaders and healers, pastors, politicians and other stakeholders who all play a role of correcting offending behaviour.
Ms Thandi Ngxonono, Executive Mayor for Govan Mbeki Municipality, commended the programme and praised the constitution of the country. She expressed admiration towards the offenders for their courage to face their victims and apologise.
She also highly praised the victims for accepting and forgiving the offenders.
