Thika: The Department of Correctional Services has raised concern over the continued congestion of prisons in the country, attributing it to frequent case adjournments, delays, and unfair bond terms, among other issues. State Department for Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Muhia acknowledged the concern and stated that they are collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Judiciary, to find a lasting solution.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Muhia, speaking during a visit to the Thika Main Prison, mentioned that the decongestion efforts will be periodic. She cited last year when they released 4,000 inmates, the highest number released in recent years. She added that another 200 files are currently under review by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and once concluded, the inmates will be released into the community.
Dr. Muhia emphasized that they are also engaging the police and the community by addressing petty cases through Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms
(ADR). She noted that many prisons remain congested due to numerous remand cases awaiting court processes and unaffordable bond terms. These issues are areas the department is discussing with the Judiciary to ease pressures on correctional facilities.
Additionally, Dr. Muhia stated that efforts are underway to improve the prison environment, making it more habitable and humane. In Thika Prison, 60 new housing units for prison staff have been constructed to enhance their living conditions and support better facility management.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to reform the correctional services sector to align with the government’s vision for inclusive and sustainable development. During the visit, inmates voiced grievances, including unfair bond terms, frequent case adjournments, and congestion in the prisons.
To address congestion effectively at Thika Prison, the Kiambu County government promised to allocate part of the Delmonte land, ceded to the county last year, to relocate the prison to Thi
ka East Sub County. While plans are underway, Dr. Muhia noted that they are awaiting the government’s directive but are also keen on developing existing facilities to enhance operational efficiency.