Maldives Correctional Service has today started a programme to psychologically evaluate inmates at Male’ Prison.
The psychological evaluation will determine mental health of inmates and the report will in turn be forwarded to the Parole Board and Clemency Board for review. The assessment will also help to determine whether an inmate is fit for prison or requires additional medical care and prove it easier to provide the necessary care.
The evaluation process was launched by the Deputy Commissioner of Prisons Hassan Zilaal at a special meeting held for the occasion. DCP Hassan Zilaal stated that the evaluation a crucial process which would help to ascertain the mental status of the inmates and provide an easier solution to problems that may arise. He also thanked the founder and CEO Consultant Clinical Psychologist Dr Aishath Ali Naaz and her team from Maldives Institute for Psychological Services, Training & Research (MIPSTAR) for carrying out the programme at the behest of MCS. He further stated that the evaluation programme will continue for the inmates from henceforth as per the requirements of Parole Board and Clemency Board.
Speaking at the meeting, the Director of Male’ Prison Superintendent of Prisons stated that the programme will be carried out at the Male’ Prison and all arrangements have been made for the programme, including security measures for the team from MIPSTAR.
Dr Aishath Ali Naaz stated that the programme has been in the planning since last year and due to some unforeseen circumstances, the programme got delayed a few times. She said that she is very pleased to see MCS take the step to conduct such an essential evaluation programme for inmates. She further added that MIPSTAR would provide full cooperation in conducting the evaluation programme.
