Number of convicts in Egypt to be granted presidential pardon

CAIRO – 20 September 2020: President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi issued on Sunday decree no. 553/2020 granting presidential pardon to a number of convicts on the occasion of the upcoming 48th anniversary of 6th of October War victory.

A committee presided by the chair of the Prisons Authority will review cases to determine eligible inmates.

According to the constitution, the president has the right to issue pardons for convicted prisoners after consulting with the Cabinet. However, the perpetrators of certain crimes are not eligible for a pardon. These crimes comprise arms trafficking, terrorism, drug trafficking of more than 10 kilograms, “heroin” trade regardless of the quantity, and revenge killing.

Presidential pardons are customary to official holidays, whether national or religious.