In a significant display of compassion and commitment to rehabilitation, President Adama Barrow has exercised his constitutional prerogative of mercy, granting full pardons to 56 male inmates, leading to their immediate release from the Mile Two State Central Prison.
The announcement came today from the Gambia Prison Service, which confirmed that the decision was made under Section 82 of the 1997 Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia. The pardoned individuals, all men, were freed following a formal release ceremony at the facility.
President Barrow’s action underscores his ongoing emphasis on justice reform, inmate rehabilitation, and successful societal reintegration. Officials described the move as an opportunity for the released men—who were deemed deserving after demonstrating positive change during incarceration—to rebuild their lives and become constructive members of their communities.
At the ceremony, the Director General of the Gambia Prison Service expressed deep appreciation to the President for his “compassionate leadership.” He urged the newly freed men to embrace their second chance by acting as positive role models, showing genuine remorse through lawful conduct, and contributing to national development.
“The Gambia Prison Service remains steadfast in its mission to promote rehabilitation, reform, and the effective reintegration of offenders as productive, responsible citizens,” the statement added.
Presidential pardons in The Gambia have historically been used to mark special occasions, reduce prison overcrowding, or recognize progress in rehabilitation. This latest exercise of mercy aligns with Barrow’s broader approach to criminal justice since taking office in 2017.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) was cited as the source of the official release. No further details on the specific offenses or individual cases were provided in the announcement, consistent with standard practice for such prerogatives.
This pardon draws renewed attention to efforts to balance accountability with opportunities for redemption in The Gambia’s correctional system.
