Evaluating the Normative and Institutional Frameworks for Management of Violent Extremism Offenders in the Kenyan Prisons

This study aimed at evaluating the normative and institutional frameworks for management of violent extremism offenders in the Kenyan prisons. This study was guided by the Restorative justice theory, Retributive justice theory and the transformative justice theory. The study applied descriptive research design. This study used purposive and simple random sampling techniques to select 200 respondents who included; prison staff (senior staff), religious leaders (Sheikhs), and criminal justice lawyers, Office of the ODPP, prosecutors and inmates. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and key informants interview schedules. Secondary data was collected from published articles, journals, books, dissertations and projects. Quantitative data was coded and entered into Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22 for analysis while qualitative data was arranged thematically and presented through narration. The study findings established that; there exist weaknesses in law regarding management of violent extremist in Kenya particularly leniency relating to the justice served. On the strategies utilized for the management of violent extremist, incarceration is perceived as a fairly effective strategy while military incursion is regarded as a very effective strategy. Radicalization can be positive if it does not encourage violence or harm. Prison authorities have adopted various approaches to manage violent extremism which include; faith-based interventions which entail religious transformation offered by professional Clerics; separation of convicted inmates in different prison blocks and cells; education and vocational training to illiterate and marginalized offenders to acquire skills which can avail them employment opportunities, psychological and cognitive approaches as well as use of recreational and cultural activities. These strategies are geared towards dissuading violent extremism offenders from extremism as well as deradicalize them. The study findings identified the challenges which confront the successful implementation of deradicalization and prevention of violent extremism in Kenyan Prisons as well as opportunities. They include; institutional challenges, recidivism or relapse among the Prisoners; reintegration challenges; structural challenges evidenced by unemployment among the released terrorist convicts; regulatory discontinuities, Gang related problems among others. In this regard the study recommends for a coordinated multiagency cooperation in the management of violent extremists suspects or prisoners. There is also need for drafting and legislation of a policy framework for the management of violent extremism in rehabilitation facilities in the country.