Court demands answers over K49 million as Baisu prison falls into decay
The National Court in Wabag has summoned Correctional Services Minister Joe Kuli to explain how K49 million meant for upgrading Baisu Correctional Institution was spent, after shocking reports revealed the prison is falling apart and unfit for human habitation.
Justice Graham Ellis issued the order on Monday, demanding the Minister provide written answers by Friday, 14th November 2025, after visiting the facility and witnessing what he termed as inhumane and degrading conditions.
Reports from the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority paint a grim picture: collapsing buildings, overcrowded cells, blocked and overflowing sewerage, untreated human waste on the ground, no transport for inmates to attend court, irregular power supply, and a rotting perimeter fence.
"The court also understands that there is also a report which included a detailed and itemised cost of a major upgrade totalling just over K49 million. While conducting trials in Baisu last week, the facility on the ground tells a different story. It would be interesting to see where this money was spent," he said.
The court has directed the Minister to respond to three key questions by the end of next week:
- How much has been spent on repairs and maintenance at Baisu between January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025?
- How much has been budgeted for repairs and maintenance in 2026?
- What contingency plans are in place if the remaining buildings are condemned and the facility is forced to close?
Baisu currently houses prisoners from six Highlands provinces, and the court warned that the ongoing neglect amounts to a serious breach of constitutional human rights.
The ruling puts pressure on the Correctional Services Department to account for millions in public funds, as the country grapples with worsening conditions in its prison system.