South African parolees reoffend at over 50% rate
The South African parole system faces scrutiny after more than 50% of parolees reoffend, prompting calls for systemic reform.
Correctional Services National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale highlighted the high reoffending rate in South Africa’s parole system.
Thobakgale said that more than 50% of the country’s 55,000 parolees commit new offenses after release.
He made these remarks during the two-day National Parole Review Summit in Pretoria, held on 22 and 23 September 2025 at the Kgosi Mampuru Conference Centre.
The summit, held alongside National Corrections Week, aims to spark a national dialogue on the country’s parole system.
THE CRITICAL FLAW IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN PAROLE SYSTEM
In a candid reflection with SABC News, Thobakgale revealed that although over half of parolees reoffend, only 10% are rearrested.
“We have a parole system that does not have the capacity to monitor frequently the parolees,” he admitted.
The problem is vast, as a single parole officer often monitors more than 100 individuals, making effective supervision nearly impossible.
A CALL FOR MORE BOOTS ON THE GROUND
Thobakgale urged the department to deploy more parole officers on the ground to reform the parole system.
He warned that without enough staff to provide proper monitoring and support, the cycle of reoffending will persist.
He also pointed to other challenges affecting parolees’ reintegration, including a lack of family support and the deep-rooted stigma they face.
VICTIMS AND PAROLEES TAKE CENTRE STAGE IN THE DEBATE
Moreover, victims’ voices took centre stage at the summit, with attorney Tania Koen speaking on behalf of victims.
Koen advocated for a victim-centred approach and criticised the shortage of resources that stops many from sharing their trauma in crucial discussions.
The summit also featured former parolees, who urged a balance between rehabilitation programmes and meaningful support for victims.
CAN THE SOUTH AFRICAN PAROLE SYSTEM BALANCE REHABILITATION AND JUSTICE?
The National Parole Review Summit has revealed the deep challenges within South Africa’s parole system.
Moving forward requires not only more resources and clearer guidelines but also a national conversation that genuinely considers all voices affected by the complex cycle of crime, punishment, and the quest for redemption.