law 4 September 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Uganda to Introduce Parole and Non-Custodial Sentences to Ease Prison Overcrowding
The Ugandan government is finalizing new parole rules to allow eligible prisoners to serve part of their sentences outside correctional facilities, aiming to alleviate severe overcrowding. This initiative is part of broader reforms including the expansion of non-custodial sentences. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4605/govt-introduce-parole-and-non-custodial-sentences
The Ugandan government is set to introduce parole and non-custodial sentencing as key strategies to address the critical issue of prison overcrowding. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja informed Parliament that the draft parole rules, designed to enable eligible inmates to complete their sentences in the community under supervision, are currently undergoing review by the First Parliamentary Counsel.
These parole provisions will require beneficiaries to adhere to strict conditions, including regular reporting to parole officers and maintaining good conduct. Failure to comply could result in the individual being returned to custody. The initiative aims to provide a structured release mechanism for certain prisoners.
The Prime Minister’s statement came in response to concerns raised by Kampala Woman MP, Shamim Malende, regarding the dire state of prison congestion and the extended detention of suspects on remand. Malende highlighted that judicial delays often lead to individuals spending years in jail awaiting trial, sometimes longer than their potential sentences.
In addition to parole, the government is collaborating with justice and law stakeholders to promote non-custodial sentences. These alternative punishments involve serving sentences outside of prison, such as through community service, and are intended for offenders whose incarceration is deemed unnecessary. This approach seeks to reduce the burden on correctional facilities.
Furthermore, the Prisons Service has implemented video conferencing facilities in 21 prisons across the country. This technology allows inmates in locations like Luzira Upper Prison, Arua, and Mbarara to attend court hearings remotely, minimizing the need for costly and logistically challenging transportation of prisoners. Infrastructure development is also underway, with ongoing construction and plans for new prison wards in several districts to improve capacity and conditions.
Source: Parliament of Uganda