A legislative review of the Correctional Services of Solomon Islands (CSSI) Act was successfully held in Gizo, Western Province this week.
The consultation was part of a nationwide effort by CSSI and the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs to review and reform outdated laws governing the operations, management, and policies of the correctional system in the Solomon Islands.
The event in Gizo brought together key stakeholders including provincial leaders, law enforcement representatives, legal professionals, church groups, and civil society organizations based in the Western Province.
Speaking to Solomon Star in an interview yesterday, Wendy Changuri CSSI Legislative Review Committee Member and Facilitator highlighted the importance of reviewing the CSSI Acts of 2007 which involves provincial stakeholder’s consultation in reviewing the legislation of CSSI by modernising the current legislation to meet international standards and reflect the realities faced by correctional institutions across the country.
“The review will form a base for us to develop a policy paper that goes to certain stages before other actual process,” Wendy said.
Wendy said, that the review process is aimed at creating a more humane, effective, and rehabilitative corrections system.
She added that other provinces will held the similar consultation but only provinces that have Correctional Service will be part of the consultation and contribution towards gearing on a new policy paper for Correctional system
Participants engaged in discussions around key legislative gaps, human rights obligations, the welfare of inmates, and the need for stronger rehabilitation programs.
Many also raised concerns about infrastructure challenges and resource constraints in provincial correctional facilities.
The Gizo consultation is one of several scheduled to be held in different provinces as part of CSSI’s inclusive and participatory approach to legislative reform.
The outcomes of these consultations will contribute to a final report and proposed amendments, which will later be tabled in Parliament for consideration.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
