Unity State governor pardons over 50 prisoners

The Governor of Unity State, Dr Joseph Manytuil Wecjang, has released over 50 inmates from Mayom County prison.  Wecjang said the prisoners had committed minor criminal offences, hence his decision to pardon them so that they could “celebrate Easter with their families” as free citizens.

The Press Secretary in the Office of the Governor of Unity State, Peter Bakuony, said the governor was touched after celebrating Palm Sunday and decided to pardon offenders in cases such as theft, and adultery, which are considered minor.

“Releasing of inmates is actually connected with Palm Sunday because he decided to pity these inmates, the governor had the intention to pardon those with minor cases, for example, things to do with theft, and those engaged with other people’s women,” Peter stated.

He added that the total number of inmates in Mayom County was 87, but that about 54 or 56 were released.

“He released them on the two important issues. One is that, because these are minor offences, you cannot be imprisoned for an extended period of time. Most of them were in prison but have returned the things they stole to their owners, “Peter said.”

When briefed on the poor living conditions, including poor hygiene in the Mayom Prison, Governor Manytuil promised renovation of the Mayom Prison as well as the provision of essential needs for inmates.

Improving livelihoods

The governor has been struggling to improve the livelihoods of the citizens of Unity State. This recently led to the procurement of food items from Sudan to the state’s capital, Bentiu.

On April 4, 2022, eleven trucks arrived in Bentiu loaded with food items to be distributed to the internally displaced persons.