Maldives president decides to grant clemency to eligible inmates, days ahead of election
According to the president's office, the decision was made following multiple complaints received under the sentence commutation initiative launched by the president
Male\' Prison
President Abdulla Yameen has decided to grant clemency to some convicts that meet certain conditions.
According to the president's office, the decision was made following multiple complaints received under the sentence commutation initiative launched by the president to mark this year's Independence Day.
Noting that the president made the decision under the rights granted to him in the Clemency Act, the president's office said it was done to provide them the opportunity to be of service to the community.
Convicts eligible for clemency include those that have not committed additional crimes for a period of five years, have started a family and are employed and working for the betterment of the country.
Those convicted over major crimes such as murder, terrorism, child abuse, homosexuality and drug trafficking are not eligible for clemency, added the president's office.
The office added that it has requested the home affairs to provide details of such cases.
Media officer at Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) Ahmed Luqmaan told RaajjeMV that they are yet to be informed of the number of convicts that are to be pardoned, and that the number will be shared with the media once confirmed.
The decision to commute sentences was based on the Technical Committee's advice after interviewing inmates sentenced in absentia, and their families.
Amendments were brought to the Clemency Act last month, easing conditions for pardons and reducing prison sentences.
Authorities have been pardoning inmates since Independence Day 2018, and reports indicate that around 300 inmates have been released since.
