IPNEWS: The Government of Liberia has released Two hundred and twenty three (223) inmates from detention centers across Liberia.
President George Weah granted the prisoners clemency as part of Liberia’s 175th Independence celebration.
The symbolic release of the inmates was held at the overcrowded Monrovia Central Prison in Montserrado County, Liberia.
Justice Ministry officials said most of the inmates benefiting from the clemency exhibited good behavior.
President Weah said:” Inmates benefiting from the clemency are those who committed minor crimes, the mentally ill, physically challenged, disabled and elderly.”
According to the pardon note, the prisoners have served sufficient average of their sentences ranging from ten to fifteen years.
Among those released are thirty-eight prolonged pre-trial detainees recommended for Noll-prosequi.
Following the issuance of the clemency, prison authorities from the fifteen counties are expected to peruse the files of inmates to select those who fall within the category.
Meanwhile, inmates targeted are to go through intensive psychosocial counseling before their release.
In February of this year, the Liberian leader, President George Weah issued a proclamation granting clemency, ordering the Ministry of Justice to pardon five (500) hundred inmates where applicable, a statement read by Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Nathaniel McGill started.
In the proclamation, President Weah said those expected to be pardoned are those who committed misdemeanor and capital offenses. But Rapists and Armed Robbers are not included.
The President also ordered the Suspension of the two-year prison sentence imposed on Mr. Brownie J. Samukai.
The President of Liberia, pursuant to Article 59 of the 1986 Constitution which vests in him the power and authority to grant reprieves, suspend fines, sentences and pardon anyone convicted and sentenced for a crime has, with immediate effect, ordered the suspension of the two (2) year prison sentence imposed on Mr. Brownie J. Samukai, following his conviction by the Supreme Court of Liberia; with the proviso that he (Brownie J. Samukai) will work with the Ministry of Justice to enter a stipulation for the full settlement of the Armed Forces of Liberia money.
The President directed the Minister of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) to make full payment of the outstanding balance of the AFL money, while Mr. Samukai is going through the Stipulation Payment Agreement.
As Liberians joyously celebrate 200 years of existence as a nation and people, the President has further directed the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General to submit to his Office a list of persons to be pardoned during these festive celebrations.
The President further called on all Liberians to reconcile their differences and transform Liberia into a haven of peace.
