NCHR lauds release of 746 prisoners as part of presidential clemency initiative

The National Council for Human Rights (NCHR), under the leadership of President Moushira Khattab, acknowledges and welcomes the presidential decree granting pardons to 746 convicted individuals who met the established criteria for release. This decree, issued on the occasion of Sinai Liberation Day 2025, is noted by the NCHR as a measure that aligns with the consideration of human rights principles within the legal framework.

The NCHR President affirmed that this decree occurs during a period of national significance and promotes the values of tolerance and compassion. The pardons offer an opportunity for the released individuals to reintegrate into their families and communities.

President Khattab further observed that such decisions are significant beyond their immediate impact on the individuals concerned and their families. They reflect an application of contemporary criminal justice principles that emphasize rehabilitation, reintegration, and social inclusion, consistent with international human rights norms.

In line with its mandate to protect and promote human rights, the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR) established a mechanism of collaboration with the Presidential Pardon Committee in 2022. Through this framework, the NCHR has actively communicated complaints received from families of inmates requesting clemency, forwarding these appeals for consideration. Notably, a significant number of individuals whose cases were brought to the attention of the Committee through this collaborative effort have subsequently been granted release, demonstrating the tangible impact of this engagement.

In 2024, the National Council for Human Rights in Egypt processed 258 clemency requests. The relevant authorities reportedly responded favorably to these and other appeals submitted to the Presidential Pardon Committee, resulting in the release of numerous individuals in pretrial detention and those with final convictions. Notably, in September 2024, 151 individuals in pretrial detention were reportedly freed through the joint efforts of the Presidential Pardon Committee and the National Dialogue initiative, which was established by the leadership to discuss pretrial detention within broader human rights issues. 

NCHR, through its President, renewed its call for the continuation and expansion of this positive approach, encouraging further issuance of presidential pardons to include a greater number of eligible inmates, particularly those convicted in cases related to freedom of opinion and expression, as well as humanitarian cases involving the elderly and the ill. Such steps would be consistent with Egypt’s Constitution, its laws, and international human rights obligations, and would strengthen public trust in the state’s ongoing path of reform and development.

Ambassador Khattab concluded by affirming that NCHR will continue to monitor the human rights situation in Egypt, including supporting efforts to increase the number of those released through its complaints handling system managed by the Council. She reiterated NCHR’s commitment to providing necessary support and advice to further promote civil, political, economic, social, and cultural r

ights.