Matiang’i propose 5000 prisoners to be freed

Home Affairs Minister Dr Fred Matiang’i on Thursday, April 28, called for the release of 5,000 prisoners from next month, citing overcrowding at correctional facilities in Kenya.

Speaking during the introduction of probation officers at the Kenya Public School, Matiang’i explained that the new order was part of a plan to reduce congestion involving the judiciary and prison services.

He noted that many prisoners were detained for minor offenses and recommended that they be placed on probation. However, this will not be available for those serving life sentences, sexual offenses, economic and drug offenses.

“I hope that in the next phase of the campaign to reduce congestion between May and June, we will eliminate 5,000 minor offenders so that we can include them in the pilot program,” he said.

The Department of Home Affairs SC noted that the department, particularly the Correctional Department, was working with limited resources, adding that detaining minor offenders would further increase its financial capacity.

“We are imposing some because of the 600Ksh fine for traffic violations!

He added that the department has provided training to adequate surveillance officers who will always see that criminals are still facing the law without having to stay in jail.