Socialist Republic of Vietnam

VietNamNet – On the occasion of the National Day, September 2, Vietnam’s President is to grant amnesty to 8,611 prisoners and absolve 12 offenders, currently serving prison sentences.
On August 30th, it was announced that prisoners to be released are 560 Vietnamese and 51 foreigners, include 28 are from neighbour China, 13 from Laos, six from Cambodia, three from Australia and one from Japan.

Prisoners with life terms must serve at least 10 years behind bars, while those sentenced to death and later commuted to life must have completed a minimum of 12 years of their prison term.

The pardoned prisoners must meet certain criteria including paying any fines that have been assessed and complete at least one third of their terms.

This decision is the yearly issue of Vietnam Government on occasion of the National Day September 2, which was announced at a press conference on August 30. In 2002, the issued pardon released more than 9,000 prisoners.

According to Nguyen Van Chien, Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Office, pardon 2004 – 2005 is for prisoners who have served time with good behaviour and absolves the prison sentence for 12 offenders.

Prisoners receiving amnesty cannot return to their former posting and must have all money repaid, and foreigners must return to their country.

“Vietnam policy for offenders is severe punishment together with leniency, with re-education. The pardon does not discriminate or limit based on nationality, if they meet the criteria, they will be released.” Mr Chien said.

“The president’s decision aims to encourage prisoners to serve prison time well, to be atoned and granted pardon.” he added.