Burundi freed 41% of prisoners to reduce overcrowding

In an effort to alleviate overcrowding in the nation’s prisons, Burundi’s president has ordered the release of all prisoners convicted of minor offenses within two weeks. This directive aims to reduce the strain on the country’s prison system.

A total of 477 inmates have already been freed from Muramvya prison. Out of the country’s 13,211 prisoners, 5,442—approximately 41% of the prison population—will be released. President Evariste Ndayishimiye views this as an opportunity for the freed individuals to contribute to the nation’s development.

“This pardon is not mandated by law, as you cannot pardon the innocent. It is a chance for our brothers and sisters to transform, renew themselves, and play a role in Burundi’s growth,” President Ndayishimiye stated.

The decision has received praise from Gabriel Rufyiri, president of the Burundi Observatory for the Fight Against Corruption and Economic Malfeasance. While welcoming the initiative, Rufyiri also called on the president to take political measures that would encourage Burundians living abroad to return to the country.

Burundi has a total of eleven prisons, but they are severely overcrowded, housing more inmates than they were designed to accommodate.