Clare N
Inmates at Katojo Government Prison in Fort Portal City have expressed frustration over the delay in their judicial proceedings, which they believe contributes to overcrowding in the facility. The issue, was brought to light by Ennamuel Bukenya Musinguzi, an inmate and Chairperson of the Interreligious Council at Katojo Prison, during a visit from the Fort Portal chapter of the Interreligious Council.
During the visit, Bukenya requested that the religious leaders use their voice to advocate on behalf of the inmates to address the delay in justice and explore alternative dispute resolution methods outside of court. He also appreciated the ongoing support from the religious leaders in providing basic aid but requested additional support for rehabilitation programs such as carpentry, soap making, and tailoring, as well as educational materials including tents for their school.
IRC Katojo Prison Determined to Transform Inmates Lives Spiritually
Bukenya, commended the Officer in charge Katojo government Prison and his staff for continuously honoring their freedom of worship in their respective religions on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, a gesture that prompted them to formulate an Interreligious Council at the prisoner’s level to collectively push forward the word of God in the community.
The council consists of 10 members, from the religions of Born Again Faith, Islam, Seventh Day Adventists, Church of Uganda, and Roman Catholics.
He emphasized the Inmates Council’s mission to help fellow inmates embrace spiritual teachings and return to society as reformed individuals but pointed out several challenges, including shortages of Bibles, Qurans, hymn books, rosaries, candles, altar flowers, drums, books of Adthi among other prayer items.
Bukenya finally tasked the religious leaders to consider making such visits to the prison annually, acknowledging their mental and spiritual contribution to the well-being of the inmates serving their sentences.
IRC Fort Portal Responds to the Inmate’s Requests
In response, Bishop Reuben Kisembo Amooti, Chairperson of the Fort Portal chapter of the IRC, assured that the council would consider the requests and provide the necessary church and mosque materials. He expressed admiration for the inmates’ dedication to their spiritual growth through the formation of their own Interreligious Council and promised to seek support for the requested rehabilitation programs, with the Anglican Church contributing timber for furniture.
Bishop Kisembo, also commended the prison staff for their dedication and encouraged the inmates to maintain hope and perseverance in their work.
The visit was attended by Fr. Gerald Akugizibwe, representing Bishop Robert Muhiirwa; Bishop Joseph Sanyu; Sheikh Swaib Tibenda; Fr. Clovice Ruhuma; Pastor Richard Rusoke; and a representative of Bishop Jimmy Katuramu.
