Libya: Supreme Judicial Council issues pardon for certain convicts under specific conditions

Libya’s Supreme Judicial Council has announced on March 11 a decision to grant pardon to individuals convicted of certain crimes, on the condition that they have served at least half of their sentence. However, this pardon does not extend to those convicted of terrorism, murder, drug-related offences, or armed robbery. The decision is aimed at providing an opportunity for early release to eligible prisoners who meet the specified criteria.

Under the new ruling, convicts must have served at least half of their sentence by 31st March of this year to qualify for a pardon. For those serving life sentences, the minimum required time served is 15 calendar years. The decision also outlines that individuals convicted of certain crimes, such as terrorism, offences against state security, retribution or Islamic penal crimes, and drug-related offences resulting in sentences exceeding 10 years, will not be eligible for release under this pardon.

Additionally, the pardon does not apply to individuals convicted of serious violent crimes such as premeditated murder, attempted murder, assault leading to death, kidnapping, and armed robbery. However, an exception is made for those who have reached a reconciliation with the victim or the victim’s family, in which case they may be considered for early release.