Government committed to improving inmates living conditions – Mudavadi

By Peter Ochieng

President William Ruto’s administration is committed to improving the living conditions of all inmates, Prime Cabinet Secretary (PCS) Musalia Mudavadi has affirmed.

Speaking while presiding over the launch of public consultation on the development of a comprehensive legal and policy framework for correctional services, Mudavadi said improving of inmates living conditions is steadily on course, through partnerships with other relevant stakeholders.

“We are committed to establishing a robust framework, aligned to the constitution and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, that enhances the living conditions of inmates, improves the structural systems for prison staff and involves the private sector in enhancing infrastructure and management practices,” said Mudavadi, who doubles as the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.

The policy framework for correctional services, Mudavadi said, will align with internationally accepted standards and best practices.

“Once enacted, the new legislation will reorient the management of correctional services, aligning it with contemporary offender management practices and unifying the fragmented laws governing correctional practices in Kenya,” he added.

In another development, Mudavadi has assured Kenyans in the diaspora of the government’s commitment to protecting their rights and welfare while working abroad.

He emphasised the importance of integrating their contributions into the nation-building process during a send-off ceremony, for more than 60 teachers who have secured job placements in various district schools across the United States of America.

“As you embark on this journey, remember that you are ambassadors of Kenya’s values and aspirations. Your success in the international arena will not only benefit you personally but will also elevate the standing of Kenyan education worldwide,” he said.

He reminded the teachers and other Kenyans working overseas, of the importance of remaining discipline, focus, and hard work.

“Kenya has gained an immense reputation globally as Kenyans working in most foreign countries have proved to be trustworthy, reliable, committed, and have shown high standards of competence in various sectors of the foreign labour market,” he said.

The former Vice President cautioned the Kenyan diaspora about the dire consequences of being on the wrong side of the law, while abroad.