Monrovia — Liberia’s Ministry of Justice has renewed its call for stronger partnerships to rehabilitate inmates at the Monrovia Central Prison, urging renowned businessman and philanthropist Upjit Singh Sachdeva, popularly known as Jeety, to back programs that transform prisons into centers of hope and productivity.
Speaking during Jeety’s annual Independence Day food distribution on July 26, Assistant Minister for Corrections and Rehabilitation Atty. Gabriel F. Ndupellar declared that government is determined to shift from merely keeping inmates in custody to equipping them with skills for meaningful reintegration. Delivering remarks on behalf of Justice Minister Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, he hailed Jeety’s humanitarian legacy, noting his consistent support for vulnerable communities long before the current administration.
“Mr. Jeety distinguished himself as a philanthropist, a humanitarian, and a caregiver who always identifies with the vulnerable population of our country,” Ndupellar said. He revealed that the Ministry has prepared a comprehensive rehabilitation proposal and intends to engage Jeety further on how the private sector can help inmates rebuild their lives.
Highlighting the plight of prisoners, Ndupellar stressed that not all inmates are hardened criminals. Many remain in pretrial detention, while others are jailed for minor offenses or inability to pay restitution. He cited cases of commercial motorbike riders imprisoned after motorcycles entrusted to them were stolen, leaving them unable to compensate owners.
“Our goal is to create opportunities where inmates can use their skills, earn income for their families, and return to society with a better future,” he emphasized.
On behalf of Jeety, his company’s manager described the Independence Day feeding program as more than charity, calling it a commitment to dignity and compassion. “True independence is reflected not only in our nation’s history but also in how we care for one another,” he said, assuring inmates they remain valued members of society.
As Liberia marked its 179th Independence Day, the event spotlighted growing calls for correctional reforms that prioritize rehabilitation, reintegration, and public-private partnerships—giving inmates a second chance while strengthening national development.
