GARISSA, Kenya — As part of ongoing judicial reforms aimed at decongesting prisons nationwide, 69 petty offenders have been released from Garissa Medium Prison to complete the remainder of their sentences through community service.
The release was presided over by Kitui High Court Lady Justice Lucy Gitari during a formal handover ceremony.
Justice Gitari urged the released individuals to integrate peacefully with community members, local administrators, and police, and to report promptly to their assigned work stations.
She warned that any offender who fails to comply with the release terms would be re-arrested and returned to prison.
“Go live well with community members, local administration, and police,” the judge said. “But let it be clear: those who do not report to their community service assignments will be taken back to custody.”
While 69 offenders were granted release, the court denied requests for early release for 11 other convicts. The decision followed objections from their parents, complainants, community elders and local chiefs, who raised concerns about reintegration and public safety.
The two judges involved in the decision — Justice Gitari and Garissa High Court Presiding Judge John Onyiego — called on communities to adopt an inclusive approach. Judge Onyiego specifically urged local populations to accept the returning offenders without stigma, enabling their smooth reintegration.
This move comes against the backdrop of a broader national effort by the judiciary to decongest prisons across the country. Overcrowding in correctional facilities has long been a concern, prompting reforms including alternative sentencing, community service options for petty offenders, and accelerated case processing.
By allowing convicts serving shorter, non-violent sentences to serve community service, the courts aim to reduce prison overcrowding while preserving the dignity and rehabilitation potential of offenders.
For the released inmates, a second chance at social reintegration offers an opportunity to contribute positively to their communities.
Local government and enforcement agencies have been urged to support the integration process and monitor compliance, ensuring the reformed programme balances public safety with human rights and rehabilitation goals.
