PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu has pardoned 579 inmates from different correctional facilities countrywide in commemoration of African Freedom Day yesterday, May 25, 2021.
Ministry of Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Masiye Banda said the Head of State pardoned 548 males and 31 females. The pardoning of inmates would increase social distancing in correctional centres to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“To commemorate Africa Freedom Day, his Excellency, Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President of the Republic of Zambia has exercised his prerogative of mercy by pardoning 579 inmates. Of these, 562 are ordinary inmates and 17 are inmates detained under His Excellency Pleasure (HEPS). This action by the Republican President is in accordance with article 97 of the constitution of the Republic of Zambia, which provides for presidential pardon and substitution of severe punishments imposed on convicted persons,” Banda stated.
Among the pardoned, 548 are males and 31 are females. The total population of inmates in correctional centres averages 22,518. Out of 22,518, 596 are females while 21,922 are males.
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Source: News Diggers
2 June 2021, 10:10