The Corruption at the Heart of Dysfunction in Correctional Services Must Be Rooted Out

Dear Editor

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling for an immediate, nationwide investigation into preferential treatment allegedly afforded to wealthy inmates at correctional centres, notably in KwaZulu-Natal.

We will formally write to the National Commissioner for Correctional Services, Mr. Makgothi Thobakgale, to request this action.

Additionally, we are urging the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services to convene a meeting during the upcoming committee week for the Department to report on the circumstances surrounding these allegations, the progress of the investigation, and whether criminal charges are being pursued under section 118 of the Correctional Services Act.

This follows reports indicating that inmates at Durban and Pietermaritzburg correctional centres may have received special privileges, including access to private medical treatment in violation of the Correctional Services Act 111 of 1998. Such acts, if confirmed, directly undermine the principle of equality before the law, a core value of our democratic system.

We acknowledge that the National Commissioner has announced an investigation, which we regard as a positive first step. However, limiting this inquiry to a single province fails to address potential systemic issues. Additionally, recent departmental briefings on disciplinary cases suggest that existing sanctions for misconduct may be insufficient to deter similar acts of corruption.

Corruption within the Department of Correctional Services poses a substantial threat to its effective functioning. The DA views this as a grave matter and will closely monitor the progress of this investigation to ensure swift and appropriate action against those involved, both within the Department’s processes and through criminal law where applicable.

Regards

Kabelo Kgobisa-Ngcaba MP
DA Deputy Spokesperson on Correctional Services