JUST IN: Former South African president Zuma placed on medical parole

Former South African president Jacob Zuma has been placed on a medical parole which may culminate on his early release from prison.

South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed the development on Sunday afternoon.

In June, Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in prison on contempt of court charges and started serving his sentence in July.

His incarceration saw violent protests characterised by looting and burning of shops engulfing South Africa.

Below is the DCS statement confirming the development.