By Diana. N. Kintu
The Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) has issued detailed updates on inmate welfare, legal processes and its mandated role in national security, during its weekly press conference held on Monday, 8 December 2025. The briefing, delivered by Senior Commissioner of Prisons and UPS Spokesperson, Frank Baine Mayanja, addressed pressing operational matters and responded to circulating allegations concerning the conduct of the Service.
Providing an updated overview of the prison population, Mr Baine reported that UPS is currently responsible for a total of 79,653 inmates across the country. This figure includes 42,458 convicted prisoners, 36,485 individuals on remand, and 710 debtors. The Service also continues to care for 287 children who reside with their incarcerated mothers. These inmates are distributed among 269 prison facilities, which are administratively organised into 19 regional commands. UPS operations are supported by a workforce of 14,902 officers, whose duties span security management, rehabilitation, healthcare and custodial services.
A key focus of the briefing was the constitutional process of granting clemency, commonly known as the presidential pardon, which falls under the Prerogative of Mercy. Mr Baine explained that Article 121 of the 1995 Constitution empowers the President to extend mercy—through pardons, sentence remissions or clemency—upon the guidance of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
He outlined the multilayered review procedure, beginning at the prison facility level where potential beneficiaries are identified. The Commissioner General of Prisons then undertakes verification before the Advisory Committee conducts further assessment. Factors considered include the nature and severity of the offence, demonstrated remorse, behavioural records, age, health conditions and the likelihood of successful reintegration into society. Eligible categories typically include capital offenders, those convicted of minor crimes and individuals with compelling humanitarian circumstances. Between 2020 and 2025, 1,798 inmates benefited from this constitutional mechanism. UPS emphasised that the process is “a humanitarian, constitutional and non-political tool” designed to advance justice, rehabilitation and controlled decongestion of overcrowded prison facilities.
Mr Baine further reiterated the statutory role of UPS within Uganda’s broader security architecture. Together with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Uganda Police Force, the Service is mandated under the Constitution and the Prisons Act 2006 to contribute to maintaining national stability. He clarified that prison officers may legally be deployed to assist the Police in matters of public order or during national events when required. Their participation, he said, demonstrates the professional training that equips them to manage emergencies, safeguard communities and uphold internal security.
The briefing also addressed and dismissed allegations circulating on social media claiming that inmates had been transported to attend political rallies. Mr Baine categorically refuted the claims, saying: “UPS wishes to clarify misleading information alleging that inmates have been attending political rallies. This claim is entirely false and should be disregarded.” He stressed that prisoners must remain in lawful, secure custody at all times and may only be escorted outside prison premises under strictly regulated circumstances, such as for court appearances or medical emergencies. He reaffirmed UPS’s commitment to impartial, professional conduct free from political influence.
In response to public concerns, the UPS spokesperson also delivered an update on the health status of Prisoner No. LWPR 975/25, Madaada Saudah, who was admitted on 10 September 2025 with an existing medical condition. Mr Baine noted that she continues to receive comprehensive healthcare from UPS medical staff. On 18 November, she required additional medical support while attending court and was immediately referred for further care. As of the latest briefing, her condition is reported to be stable and improving, and she remains under continuous monitoring. UPS pledged to continue updating the court and the public regarding her wellbeing.
The Uganda Prisons Service concluded the briefing by reaffirming its dedication to lawful custody, inmate rehabilitation and transparent engagement with the public.