By Erick Otieno
Nyanza Regional Commander of Prisons, Patrick Nyaachi, has asked Migori inmates to reflect on their time in prison and decide who they want to be in the future.
Nyaachi, who celebrated International Women’s Day with women inmates at Migori Main Prison, urged the inmates to accept and embrace the change offered at the prison facilities to self-reflect on their lives after their jail term for a better future.
He told the inmates to think about the virtues of freedom and reflect on their time before their jail term to change and become responsible citizens.
He also reminded men of their obligations by pointing out that a home and a society that lacks men’s leadership is not a strong society.
“I am urging men to play their part and be responsible citizens in taking care of their families rather than being in jail for crimes that they could have prevented,” noted Nyaachi.
The official also called upon women who falsely accuse their men of various crimes to desist from the behaviour that jeopardises family unity.
“Sometimes men are accused falsely and end up in jail for crimes that they did not commit,” explained Nyaachi.
He emphasised that the criminal system will continue to play its part to ensure that those who deserve to be in prison are genuine cases.
The official also added that the correction department will continue to take good care of inmates to ensure they become responsible citizens when they finish their jail terms.
Chief Officer in Charge of Gender and Inclusivity, Prof Rose Odhiambo, explained that culture was still the biggest hindrance to gender equality.
Odhiambo said a section of male and female inmates have been jailed because of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), cases that she said could be easily avoided.
On her part, Migori Resident Judge Anne Onginjo urged the inmates to be good ambassadors in prison as well as outside after their jail term.
Onginjo, however, called upon Kenyan citizens to be truthful to the court to get justice, adding that being truthful can open doors to an alternative justice system like mediation that can help individuals avoid prison.
