Around 35,000 prisoners will be considered for amnesty in 2010 under a recent decision made by President Nguyen Minh Triet, revealed Deputy Minister of Public Security Le The Tiem last week.

Around 35,000 prisoners will be considered for amnesty in 2010 under a recent decision made by President Nguyen Minh Triet, revealed Deputy Minister of Public Security Le The Tiem last week.

Presidential Amnesty to benefit over 15,000 inmates

Those prisoners currently serving their terms are likely to be released earlier. Parole decisions will begin on August 25, instead of August 31 as in previous years.

Drug-related criminals who must serve three years in prison will also be considered for amnesty if they have behaved well. Previously, only prisoners with one year remaining were considered for release.

Those appealing for reconsideration of their verdicts or are under investigation will be not included in the amnesty this year. Those who have two or more convictions, or have committed serious crimes against national security are also excluded.

At a meeting in Hanoi last week, the Deputy Minister observed it is necessary to ensure that the consideration of cases are conducted in a careful, objective, public and transparent manner.

He also urged authorities to pay attention to assisting newly-released prisoners to reintegrate into the community.

PV