The Prison Care and Counselling Association (PRISCCA) has praised the Lusaka High Court’s proposal to use forfeited properties as part of efforts to decongest prisons.
Earlier this week, the High Court urged government to consider converting some of the forfeited properties into accommodation facilities for inmates as a way to ease overcrowding in correctional centers.
PRISCCA Executive Director, Godfrey Malembaka, expressed support for the suggestion, emphasizing that utilizing these properties would not only alleviate congestion but also promote human rights within the prison system.
In an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Mr. Malembeka stated that providing prisoners with adequate sleeping conditions is a fundamental human right.
He also highlighted that this initiative could ease the burden on the judiciary across all provinces.
“This initiative should also be extended to the Zambia Police, as the forfeited properties could help reduce the number of people awaiting trial,” said Mr. Malembeka.
Elizabeth Mutale
