Inmates to be gran­ted sex rights while in jail

In a landmark shift towards rehabilitation, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has announced that select inmates will soon be granted access to conjugal rights while serving their sentences. The initiative, aimed at promoting correctional practices over punitive measures, will initially benefit inmates who have demonstrated exemplary behaviour and responsiveness to rehabilitation programmes.

At Marondera Female Open Prison and Connemara Prison, selected inmates have already begun enjoying conjugal visits during the holiday season. With Unity Day approaching, several inmates will also be temporarily released to celebrate festivities with their families, returning to their facilities after the New Year.

Addressing female inmates, Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu unveiled plans for a parole system that will allow eligible prisoners to serve portions of their sentences at home. "We are in the process of implementing the parole system," he said. "Once operational, this system will allow some inmates to complete their sentences in the comfort of their homes." The announcement was met with applause, with inmates expressing gratitude in song and gestures of appreciation.

The ZPCS emphasised that parole eligibility will be determined by professionals from the Parole Board, prioritising inmates who have successfully participated in rehabilitation initiatives. Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi encouraged families to engage actively in the process, noting that rehabilitation cannot occur in isolation. "Their families and communities must also play a vital role. Prisoners come from the community and will eventually return there," she said.

Khanyezi added that the upcoming parole system will extend conjugal rights to inmates, allowing them to maintain family bonds outside of prison confines. Observations from recent visits to five prisons in Harare revealed heart-warming reunions, with inmates enjoying shared meals and embracing loved ones, highlighting the positive impact of such rehabilitation measures.

The ZPCS initiative reflects a growing focus on humane correctional practices, strengthening family ties, and preparing inmates for successful reintegration into society.