{A total of 814 inmates in various prisons from across the country forgiven by President Paul Kagame have been released. }
The number of prisoners pardoned under the presidential prerogative of mercy includes 62 women convicted of abortion crimes.
As he presided over the ceremony of releasing the 62 inmates at Nyarugenge Prison known as 1930, the Commissioner General of Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) , George Rwigamba has requested them to demonstrate discipline in their communities where they are to be reintegrated.
“You, forgiven by President Paul Kagame, you are required to be of good manners in your families, avoiding recommitting crimes lest you return here. Respect leadership of communities in which you are reintegrated,” he said.
He urged inmates remaining in prison to learn from the release of their fellows and show good behaviors.
Musengayire Charles, one of the pardoned inmates has been serving a sentence for three years and was remaining with a year and a half in prison. He thanked president Kagame for the gesture.
“I am overwhelmed with joy that I can’t find a way expressing my feelings. I voice my appreciation to president Kagame for having forgiven us,” he said.
The 814 includes 37 women and girls along with 25 minor girls that were jailed for abortion.
Article 109 of the constitution allows the President of the Republic a prerogative of mercy which he can grant after consulting the Supreme Court.
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