Submission to the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services

Prison oversight mechanisms are vital to the protection and promotion of inmates’ human rights. The Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (“JICS”) therefore is an important and necessary institution. However, in order for JICS to be effective, it requires strong independence and a clear mandate to fulfil its functions. Sonke Gender Justice is concerned that it lacks both independence and a clear mandate, preventing it from fulfilling its objective of protecting the rights of inmates. Our key recommendations are summarised here.