Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance condemns Minister of Correctional Services, Dr Pieter Groenewald, for undermining the Constitution and calling for its amendments to justify his call for corporal punishment, as this is a slippery slope to the EFF and MK agenda to undo the protections enshrined in our Constitution.
Minister Groenewald suggested that MPs should follow public demand, even if it means changing the Constitution, claiming that “no Act, no constitution is cast in concrete.” This is a reckless, populist argument that strikes at the heart of our democracy.
As a Minister, Groenewald swore an oath to obey, respect, and uphold the Constitution. His words today are a betrayal of that oath and set a dangerous precedent.
We cannot allow ad-hoc submissions to Parliament, by Ministers, about changing the Constitution to become acceptable. Extremist parties like the EFF and the MK Party have long sought to rewrite our Constitution to destroy the economy, erode property rights, and weaken the rule of law. Groenewald’s comments risk normalising these attacks, and he is opening a slippery slope which he must close immediately.
The DA believes in a justice system focused on rehabilitation, evidence-based policies, and lawful management – not fear, spectacle, or cruelty.
Anything less is a betrayal of his oath, the people of South Africa, and he is personally exposing the very foundations of our democracy.
Regards
Janho Engelbrecht MP
DA Spokesperson on Correctional Services