At least 143 petty offenders are set to be released from prison following a presidential pardon, prison authorities have said.
Download list: 143 prisoners pardoned
“In accordance with Article 121 (4) (a) of the 1995 Republic of Uganda Constitution; on the recommendation of the Prerogative of mercy Committee, H.E the President has granted pardon ton a total of 143 (One hundred and forty three), petty convicts,” the statement by the Prisons Spokesperson, Mr Frank Baine, reads in part.
The pardoned prisoners include convicts of manslaughter, theft, house breaking, unlawful possession of wildlife species, burglary, possession of opium, assault, causing death by reckless driving, malicious damage and obtaining money by false pretense, among others.
The pardon was granted on public health and humanitarian grounds, according to Mr Baine.