The Correctional Services Department is adamant that the release of former President Jacob Zuma on medical parole was not unlawful.

The department has confirmed that it will appeal the Supreme Court of Appeals ruling that had upheld a lower court judgement. It believes another court will find differently based on the interpretation and application of the Correctional Services Act and other relevant prescripts.

The SCA found that former correctional services boss Arthur Fraser unlawfully authorised Zuma’s parole in September last year.

The SCA ordered that Zuma return to prison to serve his time. But added that Fraser’s successor, commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale must look into whether Zuma’s time spent on medical parole should be taken into account in determining the remaining period of his sentence.