Gbarnga, Bong County – The Chairman of the Independent National Commission on Human Rights, Cllr. Dempster Brown, has raised serious concerns about conditions within Liberia’s prison system, citing lack of logistics, poor welfare for prison officers, and systemic issues within the justice sector.
Speaking at the end of a three-day capacity-building training for prison superintendents and their deputies in Gbarnga, Bong County, Cllr. Brown said the training provided critical knowledge but also exposed deep-rooted challenges affecting the correctional system.
According to him, one of the major issues confronting prison authorities is the lack of basic security support.
“You cannot be taking care of high-profile criminals and you are not armed,” he stressed, noting that prison officers are often left vulnerable while managing dangerous inmates.
He further highlighted low salaries and poor welfare for prison personnel, warning that such conditions could undermine their effectiveness and potentially lead to security breaches, including prison escapes.
Overcrowding and Pre-Trial Detention Concerns
Cllr. Brown pointed out that overcrowding in prisons is largely driven by the high number of pre-trial detainees, many of whom are held for extended periods without trial.
He blamed this situation on delays within the judicial system, particularly magistrates and prosecutors who, according to him, often prioritize bond fees over due process.
“For minor offenses, if individuals cannot afford bond fees, they are locked up, contributing to overcrowding,” he said.
He also noted that legal provisions requiring cases to be dismissed after a specified period of inaction are frequently ignored by judicial actors, including magistrates, city solicitors, and county attorneys.
Violation of Inmate Rights
The INCHR Chairman expressed concern over the mixing of pre-trial detainees with convicted prisoners, describing it as a violation of both domestic and international standards.
He emphasized that Pre-trial detainees should be separated from convicted inmates, and Juveniles should not be held with adult offenders
“Those in detention still have rights. Being detained does not mean they lose their humanity,” Brown added.
Call for Institutional Reform
Cllr. Brown recommended significant reforms within the correctional system, including making the Bureau of Corrections autonomous rather than operating under the Ministry of Justice.
He argued that such independence would improve efficiency and accountability.
Additionally, he called for improved welfare and protection for prison superintendents, strict adherence to due process in the courts, and full respect for human rights standards in detention facilities
Public Outcry Over Justice System
The INCHR boss also acknowledged growing public dissatisfaction with Liberia’s justice system, noting that many citizens feel denied access to timely and fair justice.
“The citizens are crying—there is no justice,” he said, adding that the Commission will continue to advise the government to ensure fairness and uphold the rule of law.
