Naivasha prison officers celebrate as over 20 colleagues promoted

Naivasha GK Prison officers have something to celebrate at the close of this year after more than 20 senior and junior officers were promoted in the ongoing prison reforms.

Regardless of their positions, the officers assembled outside their offices as they celebrated their promotions in style, hours before the New Year.

Among those promoted was Patrick Mwenda, who was promoted from officer in charge of the penal institution to senior assistant commissioner of prisons.

Addressing the congregation, Mr Mwenda challenged other officers to work diligently so that their work can be noted and appreciated in the same way.

He additionally thanked the government for pushing for the reforms saying it is an indication of positive progress in the country’s development.

“We have seen some officers promoted from a rank they have served for more than ten years and this clearly shows determination to the call of duty”.

On his part, the officer in charge of the Naivasha Medium Prison, Yusuf Kaitopok, challenged the warders to treat inmates in a humane way noting that their performance was a great contributor to reforming them.

“We have a heavy duty of reforming some of the notorious criminals in jails and if we succeed on this then we will enjoy our fruits in promotions”.

His statement was echoed by retired Senior Superintendent of Prisons Wallace Gachanja, who called on all officers to be disciplined.

“Once you have self discipline you will be able to help inmates overcome their challenges and reform and this is key in any prison in the world”.

Written by Lucy Akinyi