.Simbyakula
By CHATULA KANGALI –
GOVERNMENET says it is actively reviewing the entire Prisons Act to ensure it meets the current required standards.
Home Affairs Minister Ngosa Simbyakula said in an interview that the review process had commenced and that it was ongoing.
The minister said the review process was at ministerial level.
Dr Simbyakula said the reviewed Act would be presented before Parliament this year once approved by Cabinet.
“The review process would be comprehensive. Different committees have been formed in this process which will call for the amendments of some sections in the current Act. When doing all this, we will be so mindful in ensuring that our prisons remain peaceful,” he said.
Dr Simbyakula added that Government would incorporate some international provisions like the Kampala Declaration on prison conditions in Africa.
The Kampala Declaration addresses issues concerning prison conditions; remand prisoners, prison staff and alternative sentencing, as well as making recommendations for the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and setting out an agreed Plan of Action.
He said a report on the recommendations and amendments to be made by stakeholders would be issued to the public once completed.
