DUSHANBE, October 29, 2014, Asia-Plus -- Deputies of the Majlisi Namoyandagon (Tajikistan’s lower chamber of parliament) warn that the amnesty law can become a pretext for corruption.

Speaking at the Majlisi Namoyandagon session, MP Saodat Amirshoyeva noted on October 29 that the government and civil society should take measures to prevent corruption among law enforcement officers during the application of the amnesty.

She also called on the government bodies to take adequate measures to provide the amnestied people with jobs and ease their adaption to life outside prison.

“Practice has shown that senior law enforcement officers commit corruption crimes “for early release of prisoners,” MP Muhiddin Kabiri noted.

Muhiddin Kabiri, who is also the leader of the Islamic Revival Party (IRP), also proposed to grant amnesty to young people who had joined extremist organizations “unconsciously.”   

We will recall that the amnesty law that was adopted on October 29 on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Tajikistan’s Constitution will release women, minors, the disabled, war veterans, and foreign citizens, as well as those who have served at least three-quarters of their jail terms.  However, it does not grant amnesty to those convicted of serious crimes, including murder, treason, or terrorism.