Minister Groenewald Calls for Parole Review Focused on Public Safety and Victim Justice

Pretoria, South Africa — A diverse coalition of academics, policy experts, victims of crime, unions, parolees, and government officials convened at the Kgoši Mampuru II Correctional Facility on 22 September 2025 for the opening of the two-day National Parole Review Summit. The event aims to scrutinize South Africa’s parole system, seeking a balance between rehabilitation of offenders and protection of public safety.

National Vision for Parole Reform

National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale, set the tone for the summit:

“This summit is more than a discussion; it is an inclusive dialogue dedicated to generating tangible interventions for a progressive transformation of our parole system. It is firmly aligned with our department’s vision that affirms corrections as a societal responsibility.”

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Minister Groenewald’s Keynote Address

In a compelling keynote, Minister of Correctional Services Dr Pieter Groenewald emphasized the need for parole policies that prioritize victims and public safety over administrative convenience.

“We must work together to forge a parole system that unequivocally protects victims of crime and makes our society a safer place,” he said.

The Minister cautioned against using parole as a tool merely to alleviate overcrowding in correctional centres:

“Parole must be reserved for those who have met all requirements, are genuinely prepared for reintegration, and pose no risk to the public.”

Addressing Rising Recidivism

Minister Groenewald highlighted alarming statistics from the 2024/25 financial year, underlining the urgency for reform:

• 209 parolees committed murder
• 230 parolees were involved in rape cases

“These crimes endanger women and children and threaten the very fabric of our society,” the Minister warned.

Rehabilitation and Empowerment Initiatives

A central theme of the summit was the role of rehabilitation programs in reducing reoffending. Groenewald championed Self-Sufficiency and Sustainability initiatives, including correctional centre bakeries, workshops, and agricultural projects.

“Through these initiatives, parolees gain practical skills to earn lawful livelihoods, contribute positively to their communities, and reduce the likelihood of reoffending,” he explained.

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Inclusive Dialogue and Evidence-Based Strategies

Day one, chaired by Deputy Minister Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, also offered parolees a platform to share their reintegration experiences. Key topics include:

• Advanced risk-assessment tools
• Evidence-based strategies to reduce reoffending
• Data-driven approaches to strengthen parole processes
• Protection of human rights in parole decisions

A Pivotal Moment for South Africa’s Criminal Justice System

The National Parole Review Summit represents a landmark effort to shape a parole framework that restores lives while safeguarding communities. By fostering dialogue between stakeholders, the summit seeks to ensure that parole decisions are transparent, accountable, and aligned with societal safety priorities.

“Our ultimate goal is a parole system that empowers individuals while protecting the public and honoring victims of crime,” concluded Minister Groenewald.