Belarusian president pardons 22 individuals ahead of New Year holidays

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has signed a decree granting pardons to 22 individuals, the majority of whom had been convicted of extremist crimes, ahead of New Year holidays.  

Of those pardoned, 20 were convicted on such charges, while the remaining two were sentenced for other offenses, Caliber.Az reports via Belarusian media. 

Among the beneficiaries of the presidential pardon are 15 women and 7 men, with 11 of the pardoned individuals being parents of young children. All those pardoned reportedly admitted their guilt and expressed remorse for their actions.

The decision to grant the pardons was made on humanitarian grounds, taking into account the convicts' positive characteristics, as well as the impact on their families. The president’s office highlighted the importance of supporting families and easing social tensions, especially for those who have loved ones serving prison sentences.

By Sabina Mammadli