The Justice and Legal Affairs Committee chaired by Hon. George Murugara held approval hearings for the nominee for appointment as the Principal Secretary (PS) State Department of Correctional Services Ms. Salome Wairimu Muhia.

 Members wanted to know what interventions Ms. Muhia will institute in correctional institutions and how she intends to improve the living conditions of prisoners, if appointed.

In her response, Ms. Muhia said, "all people must be accorded a dignified life, reasonable housing and proper healthcare. I will implement this through instituting legal reforms by establishing a proper legal department. I am aware of the budgetary constraints, but we must use all the resources that we have at hand prudently effectively, efficiently and transparently".

She added that she would tighten Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) controls, have proper work plans that align themselves with the budget, and be a hands-on PS if appointed.

On recovery of prison land, the nominee said she is aware that a lot of land has been lost but expressed optimism that based on the recent court ruling declaring that public land is public land regardless of the change of hand.

 The nominee also promised to help equip prisoners with modern skillsets in Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) to enable them to utilize the skills in content creation when they go out there.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Muhia  promised to work hand in hand with the Judiciary and the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee.

 “I have visited the prison quarters and the uniformed staff are a forgotten lot and if I am approved, I request the Committee to support us with additional budgetary allocation to improve their housing, healthcare and to provide more recreational facilities that are better equipped and staffed", she said. 

Ms. Muhia holds a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in Leadership and Governance from the University of Nairobi and is a professional in the field of legal practice with over 25 years of experience.