Over 1,900 Prisoners Pardoned Before Elections, Reveals Muizzu

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has revealed that the previous administration pardoned over 1,900 prisoners serving sentences for various criminal offences as part of pre-election measures, raising concerns about public safety.

Speaking to residents of Thoddoo Island during his two-day visit to islands in the Alifu Alifu and Kaafu Atolls, President Muizzu claimed that a total of 1,905 prisoners were released ahead of three national elections during the prior administration’s tenure.

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The President criticised these pardons, asserting that many criminals were freed without undergoing rehabilitation programmes, which he said had led to an increase in dangerous incidents.

“Ahead of various elections, prisoners have been released without any rehabilitation. That has led to a lot of dangerous and violent incidents spilling onto our streets,” he remarked.

Prisoners Released Under the Previous Administration

• 2019: 762 prisoners
• 2021: 458 prisoners
• 2022: 256 prisoners
• 2023: 429 prisoners

In contrast, President Muizzu noted that his administration had granted clemency or pardons to only 86 prisoners so far, emphasising that these decisions were not politically motivated.

He also highlighted the cabinet’s initiative to involve prisoners in rehabilitation programmes and government projects, aiming to ensure their productive reintegration into society upon release.