Cuba pardons 2,010 prisoners ahead of Holy Week

BOGOTA

The government of Cuba has approved pardons for 2,010 prisoners as part of Holy Week celebrations, according to reports in Cuban media.

In a government statement cited by local press, authorities said the decision was taken in connection with Holy Week commemorations.

"Taking into account the good conduct displayed by prisoners in detention and their health conditions, this decision has been made.

"Among the 2,010 pardoned prisoners are young people, women, adults over the age of 60, those nearing the end of their sentences, foreign nationals residing abroad, and Cuban citizens," the statement said.

It also emphasized that the list of those granted pardons does not include individuals convicted of sexual assault, violent crimes, murder, drug-related offenses, theft, animal slaughter, child abuse, or crimes committed against authorities.

Authorities recalled that the Cuban government has granted pardons to more than 11,000 individuals since 2011.

Holy Week, also known as Passion Week, is traditionally observed by Christians as the period commemorating the suffering of Jesus Christ for humanity.

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Demir in Istanbul