The Appointments Committee of Parliament, chaired by the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, on Thursday vetted Mr. Samuel Akena following his reappointment as Deputy Commissioner General of Prisons.
The session took place at Parliament as part of the constitutional process required for senior government appointments. Members of the committee carefully examined Akena’s qualifications, leadership record, and readiness to continue serving in the second highest office of the Uganda Prisons Service.
During the meeting, Akena highlighted his long experience in prison administration and his commitment to strengthening the professionalism of officers across the country. He also spoke about the importance of discipline, accountability, and respect for human rights in the management of inmates.
The committee asked several questions about prison security, welfare of inmates, and the ongoing reforms in the prisons system. Akena responded by emphasizing that the core mandate of the service remains the safe and secure custody of offenders while ensuring that prisons operate within the law.
He also reminded prison commanders and officers to remain vigilant in preventing prison escapes and maintaining integrity in their work.
Akena has served the prisons service for many years, rising through various leadership positions and contributing to reforms aimed at modernizing operations within the institution.
In addition to his role in the prisons service, he serves as a board member of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), where he supports national programs related to identity registration and management.
At the prisons service headquarters, Akena works closely with the Commissioner General of Prisons, Johnson Byabashaija, to guide institutional reforms and improve operational efficiency.
Following the vetting, the Appointments Committee will prepare a report to be submitted to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for further action in accordance with the Rules of Procedure of Parliament.
Akena’s reappointment reflects continued confidence in his leadership and his role in supporting the transformation of Uganda’s prisons system.