New assistant commissioner eyes strategic plan for jails

By ZACHERY PER
THE Correctional Services (CS) in the Highlands region will soon have a corporate plan consistent with the CS strategic plan 2019 to 2022 to improve rehabilitation and welfare of prison inmates.
Newly-promoted assist commissioner Simon Lakeng said his foremost task as he assumes his new position was to develop a strategic plan for seven jails in the Highlands region.
Lakeng said he initiated plans for Bihute jail consistent with the CS strategic plan to improve rehabilitation programmes.

He thanked commissioner Steven Pokanis for having faith in him and would work to create a road map for jails in the Highlands.
“As assistant commissioner for the Highlands region, I want to have a blue print as a road map like what I did for Bihute jail for the other seven Highlands jails,” Lakeng said at Bihute jail, Eastern Highlands, on Tuesday.
In welcoming Lakeng, assist commissioner Northern Felix Namane said he looked forward to working with him and assisting him implement his plans.
Namane called for unity and cooperation from jail commanders and officers to achieve maximum benefits for prisoners, prison warders, families and stakeholders.
Namane represented senior officials of the department including commissioner Pokanis, who was unavailable.
As Lakeng left to take up his new post, senior officer Samson Kiso was appointed as new Bihute jail commander.
Staff and families and inmates farewelled Lakeng, who served at Bihute for the last 12 years.
Biumo jail commander Chief Supt Judy Tara on behalf of commanding officers in the Northern and Highlands region congratulated Lakeng and assured their support in his new role.
“In the CS we need vibrant officers to carry the work of the force forward,” she said.
“The fundamental role is to provide a conducive environment for inmates and reform their lives.”