Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald has ignited national debate after proposing the reintroduction of corporal punishment as part of discussions on crime and justice reform in South Africa.
Speaking across VOC’s airwaves, Groenewald outlined the critical challenges facing the Department of Correctional Services, including overcrowded prisons, deteriorating infrastructure, and an overburdened parole system.
“It can also be implemented as part of a sentence by a court of law, with a maximum of six lashes and it should be done under strict supervision to ensure it is administered correctly,” he said.
The minister highlighted the high number of inmates held in remand simply because they cannot afford bail — many of whom are charged with minor offences.
“We have more than 2,500 remand detainees who are in prison purely because they couldn’t afford bail of R1,000 or less,” Groenewald stated.
“Corporal punishment, especially for minor crimes and juveniles, could provide a more practical alternative. People say it’s inhumane, but what’s more inhumane is keeping someone in jail because they can’t afford R300 or R500 bail.”
He added that although the country has 108,000 beds for just over 105,000 sentenced prisoners, the system is strained by more than 60,000 remand detainees — many of whom could benefit from alternative sentencing.
The proposal has sparked widespread public discussion, with some raising concerns about human rights implications, while others support its return as a deterrent to crime and indiscipline.
A VOC News poll revealed divided opinions:
-44% said “Maybe – in certain cases”
-36% supported its return
-20% rejected it as outdated and harmful
Members of the public voiced contrasting views:
“If you look back at the 1980s when it was allowed, children were much more disciplined. Today’s youth lack respect – for me, yes, bring back corporal punishment,” one listener argued.
Another caller disagreed: “No, I don’t think reintroducing corporal punishment in schools is a good idea. It can cause mental health issues, anxiety, developmental delays, and even lead to suicide. Discipline starts at home.”
VOC News
Photo: Supplied
