CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PS ASSURES OVER DECONGESTION PLAN AS SHE TOURS THIKA PRISON AND PROBATION STATIONS

By Nicholas Kigondu and Pili Chimerah

State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr Salome Beacco says the government is adopting a multisectoral approach in efforts aimed at decongesting correctional facilities.

Speaking on Friday at the Thika Prison and probation stations, the PS said the move is part of ongoing reforms that include sustained strategic efforts to transform the correctional system into a correctional service of excellence which reflects the highest standards of justice and human dignity.

As part of the agenda, the PS said she will be engaging with the Chief Justice as well as the office of the Attorney General to have delayed cases heard and expedited as part of comprehensive and evidence-based criminal justice reform strategies meant to decongest prisons.

“We will make sure we do everything to ensure those who deserve it have been released. So far, the State Department through Probation and Aftercare Service has completed 87 sentences review reports, 141 bail and bond reports and 3 POMAC reports at Thika Station.” She observed.

The State department has been working closely with the judiciary in the promotion of community Service Orders (CSOs) by reviewing sentences, and where appropriate, releasing convicts to perform community service instead of serving time in custody.

“These efforts are guided by the law and underpinned by departmental strategies, policy directives, and operational guidelines that aim to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety,” said the PS.

The PS at the same time challenged staff at the State Department to step up their efforts in line with this year’s theme of efficient service delivery for the common good even as she pledged her commitment to address some of the challenges faced by officers including housing.

She revealed that 60 housing units are awaiting commissioning at the Thika Command to boost the welfare of the prison officers.

"60 houses have been constructed and are waiting for commissioning and handover to the officers so that we can reduce the number of officers who are staying outside the prison premises. Let's be disciplined and guided by integrity. Let's endeavor to leave rich legacies." she implored. 

She said the Department is focusing on completing ongoing and stalled projects while improving rehabilitation programs for the inmates.

The PS was accompanied by the Commissioner General of Prisons Patrick Aranduh, Probation and Aftercare Services Secretary Dr. Christine Obondi alongside other senior officials from the State Department.

Photo by : Patrick Ambani