President Joseph Boakai has granted executive clemency to 38 inmates from the Monrovia Central Prison ahead of the Christmas celebrations.
This decision, rooted in the constitutional authority vested in the President under Chapter 6, Article 59 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution, underscores the Administration’s dedication to upholding the principles of fairness, magnanimity and rehabilitation.
The inmates granted clemency include 37 Liberian nationals and one foreign national of Chinese origin.
Among them are 37 males and one female, all of whom were convicted of non-capital
and non-sexual offenses.
These individuals were selected following a rigorous review process that prioritized the
following criteria means who have served more than 50% of their sentences, Inmates who completed their sentences but remained in custody due to outstanding restitution obligations involving smaller amounts and elderly inmates and those suffering from terminal illnesses.
Importantly, only inmates with exemplary behavior during their incarceration were
considered. No clemency was granted to individuals convicted of capital offenses or other infamous felonies.
This year’s clemency decision highlights the President’s compassionate leadership and
commitment to providing second chances to deserving individuals.
More than half of those pardoned were incarcerated at Monrovia Central Prison, with the remainder from various correctional facilities across the nation.
President Boakai reaffirmed his belief in the power of redemption and rehabilitation,
emphasizing that society benefits when individuals are given opportunities to reintegrate as productive members.
He assured that the Government remains steadfast in its efforts to strengthen the justice
system, ensuring that it is fair, humane, and inclusive.
The President thanked the Judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, and all stakeholders involved in this meticulous and equitable clemency process.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 24, during a ceremony led by Minister of Justice Oswald Tweh.
The justice minister, accompanied by Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs Cornelia Kruah, Solicitor General Augustine Fayiah, and Assistant Justice Minister for Rehabilitation Gabriel Ndupellar, performed the task on behalf of the President.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Tweh emphasized the transformative power of the decision and its alignment with the values of forgiveness and renewal embedded in the Liberian Constitution.
“This compassionate decision by President Boakai exemplifies the spirit of our nation a nation that embraces forgiveness, redemption, and renewal in a world often struggling to find compassion,” Minister Tweh stated.
The justice minister urged the pardoned inmates to seize this second chance and reintegrate as agents of change within their respective communities.
“You are being given a new lease on life, a second chance. Use it wisely. We don’t want to see you back in prison. Be good citizens, and let your story inspire others to follow the right path,” he added.
Minister Tweh highlighted that the act of clemency, while rooted in compassion, does not diminish the severity of the inmates’ actions. Rather, it recognizes their humanity and potential for transformation.
“This act acknowledges the resilience and hope demonstrated by these individuals during their incarceration. It is a testament to our commitment to second chances, a practical step towards justice and a stronger society,” he said.
The pardoned individuals were chosen based on demonstrated good behavior, signaling their readiness for reintegration into society.
Minister Tweh cited President Boakai’s vision of a Liberia that supports rehabilitation and restoration, emphasizing that this act of clemency represents both an end and a beginning.
“Those who stumble can rise again. With the right support and guidance, they can become agents of change in our society,” he said.
The justice minister also called on communities and families to support the reintegration of these individuals, helping them rebuild their lives and contribute positively to the nation’s development.
The ceremony concluded with a solemn appeal to the pardoned individuals to uphold the values of integrity and responsibility as they embark on their new journey; Be honest with yourselves, Minister Tweh said.
He also quoted a national proverb, “You can never impact society if you have not changed.”
The 38 pardoned inmates now carry the hope of redemption, a fresh opportunity to make amends, and a challenge to inspire others to choose the path of righteousness.
