By Guest Writer
99-year-old inmate on remand since 1996 seeks pardon as inmates accuse police of inflating charges.
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has commenced its Kigezi regional tour with a revealing inspection of Ndorwa Central Government Prison in Kabale, uncovering deep systemic gaps in the justice system due to few sessions brought bought by few judicial officers .
The high-level delegation engaged directly with inmates and prison authorities.
While addressing inmates, Commissioner Lukwago emphasized discipline and rehabilitation. She urged them to listen to leaders and wardens, noting that cooperation eases their stay and facilitates early reintegration. She encouraged active participation in rehabilitation programs and took time to hear their personal testimonies.
The inmates’ testimonies painted a grim picture of justice delayed due to a few judges in the region .
In the most poignant moment of the visit, a 99-year-old lady convict revealed she has been on remand since 1996 – nearly 30 years – and is seeking a Presidential pardon but does not know where to start from.
The Officer in Charge, Mr. Julius Kisembo, highlighted the welfare challenges in the cold Kigezi climate. He disclosed that the prison has already stocked 1,700 sweaters knitted by inmates themselves to protect them from the cold. However, they cannot be distributed until Uganda Prisons Headquarters amends regulations and gazettes sweaters as part of the official uniform. The inmates appreciated the officer in charge of the prison and prison staff for treating them well .
The Commission team includes Commissioners Shifrah Lukwago, Kaheru Crispin, Simeo Nsubuga, Jacklet and Apitta. The inspection marks the beginning of a series of regional stakeholder meetings across Kigezi. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
