BENIN/JUSTICE: Presidential Pardon Granted to 369 Prisoners

By decree no. 2026-546, signed on Friday, July 31, 2026, President Romuald Wadagni officially granted sentence reductions to 369 people incarcerated in various prisons across Benin.

This is the very first presidential pardon granted by the Head of State since taking office. Issued in accordance with constitutional provisions and after consultation with the High Council of the Judiciary, this decision allows several hundred prisoners to regain their freedom earlier than expected.

Note: This pardon only covers the remission of the remaining prison sentence. It does not erase the convictions or associated financial penalties.

The decree is particularly strict regarding the financial obligations of the released prisoners. Individuals convicted of economic or financial offenses (embezzlement of public funds, misappropriation of public funds, fraud, breach of trust, or any other offense causing harm) remain fully bound by their obligations.

Reimbursement of sums owed, payment of fines, and compensation of victims remain mandatory. In case of non-compliance, the courts will initiate proceedings, which may include imprisonment for debt.

This measure applies to several jurisdictions across the country:

Jurisdiction Number of beneficiaries
Abomey-Calavi Court of First Instance 73
Abomey Court of First Instance 38
Cotonou Court of First Instance 36
Djougou Court of First Instance 30
Pobè Court of First Instance 26
CRIET 10
CSAF 2
(The other beneficiaries come from various jurisdictions throughout the rest of the country).

The implementation of this presidential measure was entrusted to a ministerial committee composed of:

Minister of Justice and Legislation

Minister of the Interior and Public Security

Minister of Economy and Finance

In summary, while this presidential pardon offers a fresh start in the prison system to 369 people, it rigorously maintains all their civil and financial responsibilities towards society and the victims.

✍️ By Joseph HOUNKPATIN

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