By Wendy Mkandawire
The Malawi Prison Service has urged communities to welcome and provide a favorable environment for 134 inmates pardoned on Monday during this year’s Independence Day celebrations.
Prison Service department spokesperson Steve Charles Meke said community acceptance is key to the successful rehabilitation and reintegration of the beneficiaries.
Meke also commended President Peter Mutharika for granting the pardon, saying the move will help decongest the country’s correctional facilities while giving the beneficiaries a second chance.
Meke said the prisoners who have been pardoned are that have met requirements of the guidelines for the granting of the pardon to convicted prisoners and have demonstrated good behavioral reform while serving their sentence.
On Monday, President Arthur Peter Mutharika pardoned 134 prisoners, including those who have served half of their sentences, the elderly, females accompanied by infants, and the chronically ill.
The Prison Service says it will work with community leaders and social welfare officers to ensure the released inmates receive the necessary support as they return home.
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About the Writer
Wendy Mkandawire is executive reporter for Leyman Publications based in Lilongwe, Malawi. |
