President William Ruto has granted clemency to 56 individuals who were serving long-term sentences in various prisons across the country.

 In a statement from the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, it was announced that the president reduced the sentences under the Power of Mercy as provided by the constitution.

“This presidential authority breathes life into the principles of rehabilitation and restorative justice. His Excellency the President has extended the hand of clemency to fifty-six Kenyan citizens and one foreign national, all of whom were serving long jail-term sentences in our country’s various prisons,” stated Koskei.

As part of this act, conditional release was granted to 31 petitioners serving life sentences. A foreign national who was also serving a life sentence received conditional release and repatriation.

Additionally, remission and release were granted to 25 individuals, allowing for their discharge upon the remission of the unexpired portion of their custodial sentences. 

The President further extended general amnesty to all petty offenders sentenced to six months or less, as well as to those serving longer sentences whose remaining terms are now six months or less.

The Head of State urged all stakeholders in the criminal justice system to explore ways to more effectively express and implement the principles of reconciliation, restoration, rehabilitation, and reintegration into the community.