Open letter by Superintendent of Prisons to media houses

Towards a professional prison service

By now, citizens and those who choose to be informed on the workings of the prison service will be aware that on August 21, 2020 it will be my distinct honour and privilege, this time with the support of the James R. Mancham Peace and Diplomacy Institute at the University of Seychelles, as well as the United Nations Office on Drugs & Crime (UNODC) to host a symposium entitled ‘Crime and punishment. Have we got the balance right?’

In fact, this will be the third event that will have been organised since my appointment as superintendent of prisons. The events have provided an opportunity for the prison service to engage with stakeholders and as well as providing updates on progress and way forward. I expect that this event, to be held next Friday, will as well provide the same opportunities.

At a time of ‘Covid-19’ stresses, it is fitting and important to note and for those who care or are concerned for one reason or another, that the prison service is mindful of its obligations and responsibilities to treat all who are under its care, remands or convicted, in a humane manner. This we do by adhering to the Seychelles Constitution, national laws and regulations currently in force and as well the ‘Nelson Mandela Rules’ for the humane treatment of prisoners, a revised standard which was adopted unanimously at the United Nations General Assembly on December 17, 2015.

The discipline and attention that is required by all my staff at all levels means that we must continue and we will continue to give our undivided focus, care and attention to those sentenced or on remand. This goes doubly and especially to those inmates who regrettably and for one reason or another do not care for their own health or wellbeing.

As the prison service continues to work on its service and delivery, and under an operating theme for 2020 which is ‘Towards a professional prison service’, know that our dedicated team, despite pressures exacerbated again as a result of Covid- 19 and all the negatives that this pandemic brought and continues to bring, remain committed.

I am confident therefore, that on August 21, 2020 and before invited guests that this will be further firmly communicated and confirmed before interested stakeholders and the community at large.

I thank you.

Raymond St Ange