By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Sierra Leone Parliament has officially approved Joseph John Senesie as the new Director General and Susan Baby Koker as the Deputy Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS). The approval or ratifications of their nominations by President Julius Maada Bio on the 10th January, 2025 was done during a parliamentary session on Thursday 30th January, 2025.

During the parliamentary session, Members of Parliament (MPs) praised the professional credentials of both Joseph John Senesie and Susan Baby Koker, describing them as experienced administrators with strong backgrounds in prison management and criminal justice reform. Their appointments, it was underscored, signal a continued focus on transforming the correctional system into one that prioritizes rehabilitation and reintegration.

Following their parliamentary approval, Joseph John Senesie and Susan Baby Koker were formally dressed at the Correctional Canteen on Pike Street in Freetown, where they outlined their vision for the institution.

The newly Director General, Joseph John Senesie emphasized that the primary focus of the Correctional Service should shift from punishment to rehabilitation and reintegration. He stressed the need for education, vocational training and mental health programs that would equip inmates with skills to reintegrate into society successfully.

Recognizing overcrowding and resource constraints as key challenges, the DG called for strong collaboration with stakeholders to improve living conditions, ensure human rights are upheld and create a system where rehabilitation takes precedence over retribution. He also commended his predecessor, Brigadier-General SD Ngaujah, for laying a foundation for future reforms and pledged to build on his legacy.

Brigadier-General SD Ngaujah, the outgoing Director General, reflected on his tenure, recalling the difficulties faced when he assumed leadership. He noted that through teamwork, significant progress had been made in improving security and healthcare within the correctional system. He urged the new leadership to prioritize unity and collaboration, emphasizing that effective leadership depends on teamwork rather than competition.

The out gone DG also encouraged aspiring leaders within the Correctional Service to support the new administration, as leadership opportunities would come with time. He assured the institution of his continued support from his new position in the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq., described the event as a significant milestone for the Correctional Service, noting that the appointment of a new leadership team was a reward for dedication and service. He pointed out that Joseph John Senesie is the youngest person to hold the position of Director General in the history of the institution, a testament to the Government’s commitment to meritocracy.

The Minister acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing leadership and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to tackling overcrowding in correctional facilities. He revealed that, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other partners, new correctional facilities are being constructed in Pujehun, Karene and Falaba, while the Waterloo Free Trial Detention Center is undergoing expansion.

Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq. also emphasized the need for a strong rehabilitation framework to reduce repeat offenses, urging the new administration to focus on vocational training and skill development programs that would help inmates contribute positively to society after their release. He highlighted the proposed relocation of the Pademba Road Correctional Center as one of the key challenges requiring urgent attention.

The Deputy Director General, Susan Baby Koker, in her vote of thanks, expressed deep appreciation to President Bio for entrusting her with the role, as well as to Parliament for their endorsement. She acknowledged the leadership of the former Director General, Brigadier-General Ngaujah, and credited his dedication to setting high standards within the Correctional Service.

She also extended gratitude to her family for their support and commended the organizing team for their efforts in making the event successful as well as recognizing all those who played a role in ensuring a smooth transition.

Susan Baby Koker concluded by pledging to work closely with the new Director General to advance the goals of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, ensuring that the institution continues its journey toward effective and humane prison management.

With the approval and inauguration of the new leadership, the Sierra Leone Correctional Service enters a new chapter focused on reform, rehabilitation and reintegration. The expectations are high and the challenges are significant, but the commitment from both the new and outgoing leadership suggests a shared vision of a modernized and effective Correctional system.