President Chakwera Pardons 37 Inmates in Independence Day Gesture

As part of Malawi’s 61st Independence Day commemorations, President Lazarus Chakwera has granted pardons to 37 prisoners, the Ministry of Homeland Security has confirmed.

The pardons, announced today, are in line with Section 89(2) of the Constitution and Section 111 of the Prisons Act, and are part of ongoing efforts to reduce congestion in the country’s overcrowded correctional facilities.

According to a statement signed by Secretary for Homeland Security Steven W.S. Kayuni, those released include inmates who have served at least half of their sentences, elderly prisoners, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses. Only those who demonstrated good behavior and met specific eligibility criteria were considered.

Excluded from the presidential clemency were repeat offenders and individuals convicted of serious crimes such as murder, manslaughter, rape, defilement, arson, armed robbery, and offences against persons with albinism or disabilities.

“This is not a blanket amnesty,” clarified Kayuni. “It is a carefully considered act of mercy aimed at balancing justice with humanity.”