Baku:Parliament The Select Committee on Security and Justice has raised significant concerns over the Department of Correctional Services' (DCS) regression to a disclaimer audit opinion for the 2025/26 financial year. The committee has called for immediate corrective measures, enhanced consequence management, and a definitive plan to avert future audit failures.

According to Parliament of South Africa, the committee's concerns were voiced after a review of the department's 2025/26 Annual Report. Although the department achieved 85% of its annual performance targets, the committee stressed the importance of aligning these achievements with robust financial management, credible reporting, and effective internal controls.

Committee Chairperson Ms. Jane Seboletswe Mananiso emphasized the need for the department to urgently address the issues that led to the disclaimer, particularly those attributed to technical glitches. She stated that explanations provided by the department should be thoroughly examined and challenged as necessary to ensure improved audit outcomes. The committee insists on prioritizing consequence management and holding those responsible for failures accountable.

Additionally, the committee highlighted the necessity for the DCS to collaborate more effectively with other government departments to enhance service delivery and rehabilitation outcomes. Concerns were also raised about vacancies on parole boards and their impact on parole processes, prompting the committee to plan further engagements with parole boards next year.

Overcrowding in correctional facilities and the high number of remand detainees remain pressing issues. The committee encouraged the department to establish agreements with neighboring countries to manage and repatriate foreign nationals appropriately. The Integrated Justice System was also identified as a priority for oversight due to its significance in justice sector engagements.

On rehabilitation and reintegration, the committee underscored that successful reintegration should extend beyond the release of offenders. Members called for a deeper understanding of community experiences and the impact of parolees, with a focus on reducing reoffending and enhancing rehabilitation programs for safer communities.

Ms. Mananiso stated that the committee's collective experience and insight are valuable in addressing the department's challenges. The committee will continue its oversight of the department's corrective measures, focusing on improved audit outcomes, consequence management, parole administration, rehabilitation, and the successful reintegration of offenders.