South Africa: Correctional Services Committee Sounds Alarm Over Projected R749M Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Budget Deficit

The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services has expressed concern over the Department of Correctional Services' projected R749 million budget deficit, reported on August 25, 2026. Committee Chairperson Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng attributed the over-expenditure primarily to rising food costs driven by overcrowding. The committee has demanded a financial recovery plan from the department to address the deficit. While acknowledging an 83% overall performance target rate, the committee remains worried about structural challenges and escalating overcrowding.

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