DUSHANBE, October 29, 2014, Asia-Plus — Tajikistan’s lower house (Majlisi Namoyandagon) of parliament has endorsed a draft amnesty law proposed by the president on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Tajikistan’s Constitution. The law is expected to apply to some 10,000 people.
A regular sitting of the sixth session of Majlisi Namoyandagon of the fourth convocation, presided over by its head, Shukurjon Zuhurov, was held on October 29.
Speaking at the meeting, Tajik Prosecutor-General Sherkhon Salimzoda noted that would not apply to those convicted of serious crimes.
“The law does not grant amnesty to those convicted of murder, rape, terrorism, espionage, and treason,” Tajik chief prosecutor noted.
The amnesty will also not apply to those convicted of a large-scale drug trafficking.
Prisoners eligible for release reportedly include those who are disabled, World War II veterans, military deserters, convicts over 55, women and minors, those suffering from cancer or other serious illnesses, and foreign nationals. The amnesty will also apply to participants of political and armed conflicts in Tajikistan.
“112 prisoners suffering from cancer, TB and ischemic heart disease will be released under the 2014 amnesty,” Salimzoda said.
The amnesty will also be extended to prisoners, who were imprisoned for up to five years for crimes of inconsiderable or middle gravity or have served three-quarters of their terms – except for those found guilty of serious crimes.
The amnesty will also apply to those convicted of economic crimes if they repair damage, Tajik chief prosecutor stressed.
President Emomali Rahmon sent the draft law on amnesty for consideration to the Majlisi Namoyandagon on October 20.
A previous amnesty law in 2011 granted freedom to 4,300 prisoners, reduced jail sentences for another 5,000 inmates, and dropped the charges against 5,000 accused.
