Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa pardoned over 4,000 prisoners, including some previously on death row, in an amnesty marking the country’s 44th Independence Day.
This amnesty, the second in less than a year, prioritizes certain groups like women, older individuals, juveniles, the terminally ill, and those originally sentenced to death.
Prisoners meeting specific criteria, such as serving a minimum duration or having certain disabilities, are being released in phases across the country.
However, individuals convicted of specified offenses like sexual crimes, robbery, and public violence are not eligible for this pardon.
Mnangagwa expressed support for abolishing the death penalty, a sentiment endorsed by the Cabinet and pending parliamentary approval.
This initiative aims to alleviate prison congestion in Zimbabwe, where conditions have been notably harsh due to overcrowding.
