Magufuli pardons over 3,500 prisoners as TZ marks Union Day
What you need to know:
- A statement signed by Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Jacob Kingu said 722 prisoners would be released immediately while 2,808 would complete their terms.
- Prisoners who did not benefit included those convicted of murder, suicide and infanticide, drug trafficking and abuse, as well as those handed life sentences.
DAR ES SALAAM,
President John Magufuli on Friday pardoned 3,530 inmates as the country commemorated the 55th anniversary of the Union.
A statement signed by Home Affairs Permanent Secretary Jacob Kingu said 722 prisoners would be released immediately while 2,808 would complete their terms.
“It is the government’s expectation that they will rejoin and cooperate with members of the society in nation building," Maj. Gen. Kingu said.
"We also expect them to avoid committing offences that will take them back to prison."
President Magufuli issued the pardon in line with his powers as stipulated in Article 45 (1) (d) of the Constitution.
OTHER CASES
The notice said the beneficiaries included prisoners convicted before March 15 and those suffering from chronic diseases including HIV/Aids, tuberculosis and cancer.
Others were those older than 70, those with physical and mental disabilities and those pregnant or with young children.
Prisoners who did not benefit included those convicted of murder, suicide and infanticide, drug trafficking and abuse, as well as those handed life sentences.
Others were inmates found guilty of indecent assault, rape, defilement and violence against children, vehicle theft and destruction of infrastructure, as well as those on parole.
Also in this category were those found guilty of abuse of office, money laundering and economic sabotage, and preventing children from accessing education, as well as those who benefited from previous presidential pardons.
