Former Deputy Director-General of Prisons in charge of Operations, Sylvester K. Badu Rabbles (Retd), has encouraged prison associates to reject stigma and intentionally pursue disciplined lifestyles that will help them avoid recidivism and successfully reintegrate into society.
Speaking on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at the Prison Associates’ Conference (PRISACON) at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa-Yesukrom on the topic, “Overcoming Stigmatisation and Recidivism,” DDGP Rabbles described stigma as a form of labelling that causes society to reject individuals because of their past mistakes or circumstances.
According to him, stigmatisation often results in low self-esteem, depression, hopelessness, discrimination, and social isolation, particularly when ex-offenders seek employment, accommodation, and acceptance within their communities.
He explained that recidivism refers to the tendency of ex-offenders to return to prison after release, stressing that the conference seeks to help participants break that cycle through transformation and intentional living.
“Your past cannot define you. It is not a permanent marker on your life,” he stated.
Referring to 2 Corinthians 5:17 and John 8:11, DDGP Rabbles noted that the grace and mercy of God are powerful enough to break cycles of crime and imprisonment.
He emphasised that ex-offenders would constantly face choices between lawful living and criminal behaviour, and therefore must establish strong personal discipline and life structures to guide their decisions.
According to him, discipline remains essential after release from prison, particularly because life outside prison does not come with the same controlled environment and strict regulations.
He encouraged participants to develop consistent spiritual and personal routines, including prayer, morning devotion, goal-setting, and productive work habits.
“The idle mind is the workshop of the devil,” he cautioned, urging participants to remain committed to productive and purposeful living.
DDGP Rabbles also warned against maintaining relationships with former criminal associates, describing such associations as one of the strongest indicators of recidivism.
“Be very wise in your choice of friends and avoid relationships that push you toward crime,” he advised.
He further encouraged prison associates to embrace humble beginnings, work diligently, and gradually build stable and respectable lives through legitimate means.
According to him, legally earned income promotes independence, confidence, self-respect, and personal dignity.
Touching on emotional management, he urged participants to learn how to control anger and avoid emotionally driven decisions that could lead to conflict and criminal behaviour.
He recommended counselling, prayer, meditation, reflection, exercise, and involvement in church activities as practical tools for personal transformation and emotional stability.
DDGP Rabbles noted that society may not immediately trust ex-offenders after their release, but consistency in positive behaviour would gradually build confidence and acceptance.
“Consistency will change how society sees you and how you see yourself,” he stressed.
He also encouraged prison workers and volunteers to intentionally mentor ex-convicts by monitoring their progress, offering guidance, and rewarding positive behavioural change.
Concluding his presentation, DDGP Rabbles reminded participants that God is able to transform broken lives for meaningful purposes.
“Overcoming stigma and recidivism is about building a life worthy of protection,” he concluded.
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