Parliament, Friday, 24 April 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services today engaged the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (JICS) on its annual performance plan (APP) and budget for the 2026/27 financial year, highlighting concerns about vacancies, including that of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Committee Chairperson, Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng, commended JICS for submitting a structured APP. She said: “The committee is concerned about vacancies in general, and in particular the position of the CFO, which has been vacant for a long time. We urge the JICS to make greater effort in the current financial year to ensure that this position is filled. We will monitor developments in this regard on a quarterly basis.”
The committee flagged underspending by JICS on Compensation of Employees, noting that this has been a recurring issue. In the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, JICS reported that it achieved 68.21% against a target of 75%. The 6.79% deviation was attributed to vacant positions that had been advertised but not finalised.
JICS, with a budget of R129 793 000 for the financial year, indicated that its priority focus areas for the 2026/27 financial year include stronger oversight and accountability, improved protection of inmate rights and dignity, better compliance and conditions in correctional facilities, enhanced transparency and system performance, as well as contributing to a capable and ethical state.
Ms Ramolobeng said the committee is eagerly awaiting the introduction of the JICS Bill and would appreciate regular updates on progress. “Without this piece of legislation, you are not fully independent,” she said.
The committee noted with appreciation the target of 30% youth employment. It encouraged JICS to ensure career growth for young individuals so that they do not remain Independent Correctional Centre Visitors (ICCVs), designated individuals who monitor prison conditions and inmate treatment, for extended periods without advancement opportunities.
The committee further urged JICS to ensure alignment between its budget and APP targets, stating that spending should be closely monitored to avoid under- or overspending.
The committee also expressed appreciation to JICS for identifying risks and developing mitigation measures to ensure that its performance targets translate into real interventions aimed at preventing violations of inmates’ rights.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, MS KGOMOTSO ANTHEA RAMOLOBENG.
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