Convicted South African athlete Oscar Pistorius, who is serving time for murdering his ex-girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, will remain in prison after his application for an early release was denied during a parole hearing on Friday.

The renowned paralympian made headlines on Valentine’s Day in 2013, after he shot and killed Ms Steenkamp at his home in Pretoria, claiming that he thought she was an intruder.

After almost a year and half amid several delays during Pistorius’ trial, he was found guilty of culpable homocide and reckless endangerment using firearm and was subsequently sentenced to 13 years in prison for the murder.

Pistorius, who became the tenth athlete to compete in both the Olympic and the Paralympic at the 2012 London Olympic, has always maintained his innocence, stating he did not intentionally kill his then girlfriend 

However, Pistorius’ wish was not granted at his parole hearing today as it was totally denied by the board. The victim’s mother June Steenkamp saying she didn’t believe Pistorius was “remorseful… or rehabilitated” ahead of the hearing. 

“While they welcome today’s decision, it’s not a celebration for them because they still miss Reeva every day but they are pleased that justice has prevailed,” Tania Koen, the Steenkamps’ lawyer told VOA.

Meanwhile, the parole board rule that Pistorius could apply for another hearing in August next year.