Mozambique’s PM Urges Reforms for Overcrowded Prisons and Improved…

Mozambique’s Prime Minister has called for urgent action to address prison overcrowding and improve conditions for inmates under new SERNAP director Ilídio Miguel. Key measures include enhancing rehabilitation programs and ensuring security. This call comes amid civil unrest and significant inmate escapes, highlighting pressing social issues throughout the country.

In Mozambique, Prime Minister Maria Benvida Levi has urged the newly appointed director-general of the National Prison Service (SERNAP), Ilídio Miguel, to address prison overcrowding and enhance living conditions. During the swearing-in ceremony in Maputo, she noted, “Despite the ongoing efforts to improve the management of our country’s prisons, prison overcrowding continues to be one of the main challenges facing our system.”

The Prime Minister emphasized the need for improved facilities and staff conditions, along with the introduction of rehabilitation and reintegration programs for inmates. She remarked, “As a government, we will continue to support SERNAP by strengthening oversight mechanisms and ensuring that the sector’s policies are aligned with the principles of justice, security and respect for human rights.”

In response, Director-General Miguel pledged to enhance security measures to prevent inmate escapes. He asserted, “We are going to study the existing conditions to make this recommendation to ensure security effective,” further committing to uphold human rights within prison environments.

Significant challenges have arisen in recent months, with a notable incident on December 25, when 1,534 inmates escaped amid riots at the Special Maximum Security Penitentiary and Maputo Provincial Penitentiary, leading to 35 fatalities. Additionally, on February 3, 200 inmates escaped from a facility in Gorongosa during protests against rising living costs.

These events have transpired within a broader context of civil unrest and protests across Mozambique since October, largely fueled by dissatisfaction over the election results and the escalating cost of living. Official reports indicate that at least 353 individuals, including approximately two dozen minors, have died in related violence, with the government confirming at least 80 fatalities and significant destruction of property during demonstrations.

In conclusion, the Prime Minister of Mozambique has highlighted the urgent need to combat prison overcrowding and improve conditions within the National Prison Service. The newly appointed director-general, Ilídio Miguel, has committed to enhancing security and safeguarding human rights amidst a backdrop of civil unrest and rising social tensions. The government’s focus remains on aligning prison policies with justice and humanitarian standards, while addressing the challenges faced by the country’s penal system.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com