Politics
Daughter of Chris Hani’s Killer Reveals Conditional Reconciliation Terms
Ewa Walus, daughter of the infamous Janusz Walus who was convicted for the assassination of Chris Hani, has disclosed her terms for potential reconciliation with her father as negotiations loom over his possible deportation to Poland. Sharing the profound impact of her father’s crime on her family, she expressed her willingness to rekindle ties under a specific condition.
During an interview with eNCA, Walus stressed that should her father decide to delve into extreme right-wing politics, their fragile relationship would consequently come to an abrupt end. Despite the tumultuous past, she voiced her desire to rebuild connections, shedding light on the emotional reunion she recently experienced with Janusz Walus after three decades.
Janusz Walus, a Polish immigrant to South Africa who conspired with Clive Derby-Lewis to murder Chris Hani in Boksburg back in 1993, served close to 30 years in incarceration before being granted parole in 2022. Ewa Walus is now advocating for his return to Poland as he navigates the aftermath of his heinous act.
Reflecting on the misconceptions that linked her with her father’s extremist ideologies, Ewa lamented aligning with right-wing groups for fundraising purposes, acknowledging the detrimental impact on her public image. She emphasized her stark opposition to his views and expressed hope that he would prioritize familial bonds over political affiliations.
Throughout the interview, Ewa revealed glimpses of optimism regarding her father’s potential transformation, especially upon returning to Poland where political sentiments have drastically evolved. Despite acknowledging his troubled past and racist inclinations, she remains steadfast in her efforts to facilitate a healing process within their fractured family dynamic.
While Ewa’s daughter currently harbors reservations about meeting her grandfather, Ewa remains resolute in her pursuit of reconciliation, underscoring the complexity of their relationship forged in adulthood. Janusz Walus, in his bid for parole, professed repentance and a newfound commitment to embracing South Africa’s constitution and rejecting racism.
Senior Polish officials have expressed support for Walus’s repatriation, emphasizing his advanced age and the need for compassion in his twilight years. As the saga unfolds, Ewa Walus is navigating a delicate balance between past grievances and the possibility of a future marked by forgiveness and familial reconnection.