COMMITTEE DEVELOPING POLICIES FOR CORRECTIONAL SERVICES RETREATS TO DRAFT FRAMEWORK

COMMITTEE DEVELOPING POLICIES FOR CORRECTIONAL SERVICES RETREATS TO DRAFT FRAMEWORK

By Pili Chimerah 

The process of developing a legal and policy framework for Kenya's correctional services is now at an advanced stage with the committee tasked with drafting the framework retreating to review submissions from the just concluded public participation exercise. 

The exercise is meant to consolidate public views and recommendations that will guide in drafting the National Correctional Services Bill and Policy. 

State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr.  Salome Beacco, who had joined the team in Naivasha, lauded the team for its efforts even as she challenged the committee to develop a legal framework that is in line with the Constitution and speaks to the current offender management practices.

She cited issues such as housing for Correctional officers, Climate change initiatives, sports, training, prison enterprise, education and vocational training as among those that need special attention.  

"I encourage you to remain open during this very noble exercise, undertake further research, where necessary, consult as much as possible in an effort to achieve your objectives," she implored. 

Reviewing of the legal framework is one of the 8 key priority areas, as spelt out by the Principal Secretary, meant to fully reform Correctional institutions from penal to Correctional institutions. 

Once the committee finalizes its mandate, it will submit a final report, draft National Correctional Services Policy, Kenya Correctional Services Bill, and any other relevant documents to the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration.