At least 86 inmates have been released from Kodiaga Maximum Security Prison in Kisumu following a judicial decongestion exercise aimed at easing overcrowding and improving access to justice.
The exercise, conducted by the Kisumu High Court, involved the review of more than 350 case files by judges and magistrates who held court sessions within the prison. Priority was given to inmates facing minor offences, those who had spent extended periods in remand, and cases deemed suitable for non-custodial sentences.
Judicial officers leading the exercise said regular case reviews are critical in preventing unlawful detention and addressing systemic delays within the criminal justice system. They noted that prison decongestion remains a key pillar in safeguarding the rights of persons in custody.
The initiative brought together multiple justice sector stakeholders, including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Kenya Prisons Service, Probation Department and the Law Society of Kenya, reflecting coordinated efforts to enhance fairness and efficiency.
In addition to case reviews, the visiting team donated assorted items to inmates as part of a Christmas-season outreach, reinforcing a humane and rehabilitative approach to corrections. The Judiciary said similar exercises will continue nationwide.
