PRESS STATEMENT ON ERAP PARDON:

The former president is now over 70-years old and under our laws, he deserves utmost leniency. He has already extended his hand for the sake of national unity and I believe that the government should, as it had reciprocated.

This is a good development and I am optimistic that this could usher in a new era and progress. I call on the critics to give this a chance and to stop their bickering.

I hope that will put to a close this previous chapter of our political history that has brought division and polarization among our people. Now, we can hopefully work together as one race united in our goals and aspirations.