APM pardons 222 prisoners, grants nine month general amnesty

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

The Government of Malawi has announced the release of 222 convicted prisoners and the granting of a nine month general amnesty to eligible inmates as part of the 2025 Christmas and New Year festive season clemency measures.

The announcement was made in a press release issued on January 1st, 2026, signed by Secretary for the Ministry of Homeland Security, Linda Moore.

Moyo said the clemency follows the exercise of presidential powers by His Excellency the State President of the Republic of Malawi, Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, in accordance with Section 89(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi.

“The President’s decision to grant pardon is aimed at promoting mercy, rehabilitation, and national unity during the festive season, a period traditionally associated with forgiveness and renewal.

“The 222 prisoners granted full pardon include convicted inmates who have served at least half of their sentences, elderly prisoners, female inmates, and those suffering from chronic illnesses,” reads communication in part.

According to the Ministry, all prisoners considered for pardon met the requirements set out in the Guidelines for the Granting of Pardon to Convicted Prisoners.

The beneficiaries were further assessed on their conduct in custody and were found to have demonstrated good behavior and positive reform throughout their period of incarceration.

In addition to the individual pardons, the President has also granted a general amnesty of nine months to convicted prisoners serving determinate sentences across all correctional facilities in the country.

The general amnesty, however, excludes prisoners with relapsed criminal behavior or recidivism, as well as those convicted of serious offences.

Excluded offences include murder, trafficking in persons, manslaughter, arson, armed robbery, robbery with violence, burglary, rape, defilement, offences against persons with albinism, and offences against persons with disabilities.

For those who qualify, the general amnesty will result in a reduction of their remaining sentences by nine months.

The Ministry estimates that the measure will lead to a reduction of the national prison population by 15 percent, benefiting approximately 2,640 inmates.

Moyo said the decision underscores government’s commitment to balancing justice with compassion.

“This exercise of clemency reflects His Excellency the State President’s commitment to rehabilitation, second chances, and decongesting our prisons, while ensuring that public safety remains paramount,” said Moyo.

The Ministry of Homeland Security has directed prison authorities to immediately commence the implementation of the pardons and sentence reductions in line with the law and established procedures.