During a historic ceremony at the State House this morning, President Wavel Ramkalawan of the Republic appointed the first female Commissioner of Prisons. In accordance with Section 4, Sub-section 3 of the Prisons Act 2001, Commissioner Janet Georges was formally appointed, with her tenure effective as of today, July 23, 2024. The event was attended by high-ranking government officials and family members of Commissioner Georges.
During his address on this auspicious occasion, President Ramkalawan congratulated the new Commissioner on her appointment, expressing his full confidence that, with her experience and discipline, she will execute her new responsibilities with the utmost professionalism and efficiency. The Head of State also reaffirmed the government's and partner agencies' commitment to providing the necessary support for the critical tasks she will undertake.
In an interview with the local press, Commissioner Georges described her new appointment as one of her greatest honours. While she feels privileged to be the first female Commissioner of Prisons, she emphasized that she is not driven by the title but rather by her dedication to the work and the contributions she can make to the country. Upon taking office, Commissioner Georges stated that she will focus on strengthening the current vision and mission of the prison service, with an emphasis on rehabilitation and the reintegration of convicts into society.
“I have been with the team for the last five months, and I feel ready for the new challenges. With the newly built facilities, we expect to have sufficient space for our programs; we hope to empower inmates so that they can successfully rejoin society,” added Commissioner Georges.
In attendance at the ceremony were First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramakalawan, Vice-President, Ahmed Afif, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Anthony Fernando, the Designated Minister, Mr. Jean Francois Ferrari, the Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Errol Fonseka, the Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly, Hon. Bernard George, the Attorney General, Mr. Frank Ally, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ted Barbe, the Chief of Defence Forces, Brigadier, Mr. Micheal Rosette, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Gervais Henri, the Chairperson of the Defence and Security in the National Assembly, Hon Clifford Andre, the Director of the Intelligence Unit, Mr. Benediste Hoareau, the Former Commissioner of Prisons and the Prison Senior Management Team.