What seemed like the lowest point in Thomas Mutune’s life, being sentenced to 30 years in prison has unexpectedly become the turning point for his career prospects.
Mutune was a convicted felon charged with narcotics trafficking and jailed at the Thika Main Prison. However, after serving just 10 years at the facility, Mutune walked out and away from the iron bars as a fully qualified lawyer.
His story begins at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) where he was arrested in possession of illegal drugs. The Milimani Law Courts found him guilty of all charges levelled against him. He faced a long future in lock-up; 30 years as ruled by the judge.
At first, Mutune was held at Industrial Area Prison, then transferred to Kamiti Maximum Prison. After seven years, he was moved to Thika Main Prison, where he completed his sentence.
For most incarcerated individuals, opportunities for education and career development are limited. However, Mutune’s story stands different as he managed to pursue and complete an online law degree from Strathmore University.
This is courtesy of Justice Defenders, an NGO based in the UK which seeks to enhance access to justice and legal education for prisoners. While continuing with his studies, Mutune also received training as a paralegal officer and a sign language interpreter.
Sooner than later, Mutune’s new-found knowledge was paying off when he would assist his fellow inmates with all the legal troubles they faced. His education not only rehabilitated his into a new person but also gave him a purpose while in prison.
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His release from Thika Main Prison comes just a few months shy of his graduation. According to Justice Defenders Kenyan representative, Meshack Otieno, the organization aims to nurture the potential of inmates and help them realize their dreams.
Prison wardens praised him for his discipline and intelligence while in lock-up. The prison commander noted that he had become an invaluable legal consultant for other inmates serving different terms.
Mutune now dreams of setting up his own law firm and using his life experience to guide others in his community and prevent them from committing the mistakes and crimes that he did.
