Families of Keith Bird’s victims voice fears over his early parole bid

Keith Bird’s parole bid raises alarm among the families of his victims, who continue to seek justice. In a shocking turn of events, Keith Bird, a convicted serial killer and rapist, is seeking early release from his 50-year sentence due to health concerns, just seven years into his imprisonment. Candice van Reenen, regional communications for the Department of Correctional Services said they were not in a position to comment on Victim-Offender Dialogue (VOD) when Bird’s parole bid was queried.

“Victim Offender Dialogues are internal processes. As a means to protect victims, information on these processes are not disclosed,” she said. Bird’s VOD has commenced at Drakenstein Prison, where he is being held.

This has triggered alarm from the families of his victims and survivors who continue to grapple with the aftermath of his heinous actions. Ellen Bardien, the sister of Bird’s victim Aniesa Bardien, expressed her outrage, recounting the pain of losing her sister at just 37 years old. “I felt angry, hurt, scared and don’t think this justice system is right.

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She still had her whole life ahead of her,” she lamented, summarising the ongoing trauma that haunts the families affected by Bird’s crimes. thought they(DCS) saying he wants to ask forgiveness but they were speaking about parole in between the VOD session and I couldn’t look at him during the VOD because the look he had in his eyes scared me. I feel safe for now that his still in prison but I am worried if he does get parole then it will feel like in 2014 again.” Activist Felicity George, who accompanied the survivor to the session, stated, “He showed no remorse: “He must not get parole, this is a plot and plan from his side, he is a manipulator.

I said to him that he not sorry. He is only sorry that he is in prison. He had a smug look on his face.” The community has rallied, witha petition launchedunder the guidance of activist, Joanie Fredericks and many other roleplayers to ensure Bird remains behind bars.

“If we allow a man like Bird— a convicted serial rapist and double murderer—to be slowly prepared for release behind closed doors, we betray every survivor,” said the petition. Aniesa Bardien disappeared from her home in Bloubos Street, Eastridge on 7 January 2013.

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