Inmates complain over use of skype for court hearings

Busia Saturday May 13, 2023

KNA by Salome Alwanda

Inmates at Korinda GK prison have complained about the use of skype during the process of delivering justice by the court.

Speaking to the Court Users Committee (CUC) on Thursday, the inmates said that communication was not clear when using the skype.

They requested the court leadership to allow them to revert to the open court system where they can interact directly with the witnesses and others.

The inmates also complained about nonappearance of witnesses in court, adding that some of them had spent more than three years in court and their cases have not been heard.

The inmates requested for reasonable bond terms arguing that some of them have never stepped out of Busia town yet they are denied bond after being considered flight risk.

They further argued that those accused of defilement are never taken for medical examination requesting that such inmates should be released due to lack of evidence.

The inmates also complained that their appeal cases were taking long, adding that those requesting for appeal are hardly given the required documents in connection to their cases.

They also complained about congestion within the facility noting that petty offenders are treated to hefty fines that they cannot afford.

The inmates at the same time requested for the release of those who have served for more than five years’ and undergone training.

They also requested for psychological support to the families of inmates who are serving long terms in prison.

However, the CUC led by the Presiding Judge, Justice William Musyoka clarified the above allegations to the satisfaction of the inmates.

Justice Musyoka explained that the justice system is a process that begins from the police station passing through other stakeholders adding that delays should not be blamed on court alone.

"We are going to analyze your petition and see where we can rectify to ensure that we operate smoothly," he said.

He added that congestion is a countrywide problem but asked the officer in charge to present files that are ready for review.

The judge also agreed that suspects should be subjected to open court hearing in accordance with the law.

The CUC members also presented some donations of personal effects and food items to support the inmates.

Courtesy; K.N.A