The Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board has denied Najwa Petersen's latest application for parole. This marks the second time in just over a year that Petersen, convicted of orchestrating the murder of her husband, music and theatre icon Taliep Petersen, has been denied release.
Najwa Petersen is currently serving a 28-year sentence after being found guilty of orchestrating the murder of Taliep Petersen, who was shot dead in their Athlone home in December 2006. She became eligible for parole after serving 16 years of her sentence.
Taliep Petersen's brother, Igsaan Petersen, expressed the family's relief at the board's decision. He acknowledged the ongoing discussions about forgiveness but emphasized the irreplaceable loss of his brother. "A lot of people are talking about forgive and forget. We will never be able to see my brother or hear his voice again. But at the end of the day, we are also human beings, but if you can't give us the truth, then what do you expect from us?"
Criminal law expert Dr. Llewelyn Curlewis has previously stated that there's no specific timeframe for the parole board to make a decision in cases like these. The board must consider factors such as the inmate's rehabilitation and the potential risk to the public if released.
Petersen's previous parole hearing took place in September 2024, where she was initially granted a parole placement date. However, this decision was referred for review following objections from Taliep Petersen's family.
Waheed Hassen, who was convicted of actually killing Taliep Petersen, was released on parole in October 2024. Abdoer Raasiet Emjedi, the middleman who found the hitmen, was released on parole in 2020.
Speaking at a community meeting, Najwa's son, Sulaiman Effendi, stated that he would ensure his mother complies with all parole conditions should she be released.
What's Next for Najwa Petersen?
With this latest denial, Najwa Petersen will remain incarcerated. The parole board will likely re-evaluate her case in the future. The family of Taliep Petersen continues to grapple with the pain of their loss and the complexities of forgiveness.