Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
SOME spouses of prison inmates, utilising the current “Family Week” are now appealing for conjugal rights to ‘strengthen marital relationships’ under the new Correctional model.
While commending the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) for moving away from a previously tough regime, some visitors said conjugal rights should be introduced to allow couples to keep their bonds strong.
Also under the programme, some disciplined female inmates are transferred to Marondera Female Open Prison, while male inmates are taken to Connemara Open Prison. From there, they may be allowed to go for holidays while serving their sentences.
ZPCS is also set to introduce a parole system, under which selected inmates would be allowed to complete their sentences from home.
During the current Family Week, several visitors were seen caressing and kissing their loved ones as they interacted with inmates.
At Harare Central Prison, one inmate, Jacob Ganye, could not resist a brief kiss—lasting less than a minute—from his visiting wife, Diana Kasekete.
Speaking to Zimpapers, Diana said she would remain faithful until her husband’s term ends in four years.
“My husband was sentenced to four years, and he has since served seven months,” she said.
“I will manage my feelings until he completes his prison sentence. We thank ZPCS for giving us this chance to get close to him like this.”
Diana added: “We knew about seeing inmates from a distance, behind bars. But the Correctional aspect has brought us joy. We are now praying for conjugal rights.”
ZPCS has held two Family Weeks this year, during which inmates are given opportunities to meet their children, spouses, relatives, and friends for fellowship.
Mathew Masinge