INTERIOR CS TOURS ELDORET MAIN AND WOMEN PRISONS, PLEDGES TO IMPROVE WELFARE OF STAFF AND INMATES

By Nicholas Kigondu

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pledged support for ongoing reforms targeting the country’s correctional services.

Speaking during a familiarization tour of the Eldoret Main and women prisons, Murkomen said he will prioritize the improvement of living conditions for staff and inmates through a modernization programme as well as the construction of decent houses for both prison officers and inmates.

“An effective prison system plays a vital role in ensuring we have a safe society. To achieve this, the welfare of prisoners and prison officers must be given due consideration at all times.” He observed.

And amid concern that those serving long jail terms are often overlooked when opportunities for pardon become available and that the Power of Mercy Advisory Committee (POMAC) recommendations take a long time to be effected, the interior CS said he will engage with the Attorney General to expedite the process so that those who qualify for pardons are released in the shortest time possible.

He said his office will liaise with respective government agencies to ensure those undertaking technical training within correctional facilities receive certification from the National Industrial Training Authority through recognition of prior learning and certification while at the same time explore the possibility of having those leaving correctional facilities acquire clearance certificates from security agencies.

“It is about correction. We are implementing a raft of reforms to ensure those leaving prisons are fully rehabilitated and reformed and become productive members of the society.” He said.

Speaking during the visit, State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco said part of the reforms within correctional systems include the adoption of evidence-based rehabilitation programmes, decongestion, modernization, collaboration with county administrations and partners as well as pushing for enhanced budget.

She said the department is in the process of reviewing its legal and policy frameworks besides embarking on digitization of its processes as part of ongoing efforts to fast-track the envisaged reforms.

The Cabinet secretary and the Principal Secretary took the chance to share the festive season cheer with officers and inmates at the two correctional facilities donating non-food and food items for inmates.

During the visit, the interior Cabinet Secretary officially opened St. Andrew's Protestant Church Eldoret Prison and witnessed its dedication.