Two Death Row Inmates Pardoned Just Hours Before Execution in Karachi

Karachi: Two death row inmates at Karachi Central Jail were granted a last-minute reprieve after the families of their victims forgave them just 24 hours before their scheduled execution. The prisoners, who are close friends, were convicted of murder in 2014.

Recalling the moment, one of the inmates said, “Our execution was scheduled, but a stay was granted as the victim’s family forgave us. We now appeal to the President for clemency, as we deeply regret our actions.”

The inmate further explained that at the time of the crime, he was just 17 and a half years old, while his friend was 18. “We were young and made a terrible mistake. Now that the victim’s family has pardoned us, why is the state still punishing us? We have already spent 19 years in prison,” he added.

Reforms in Karachi Central Jail

Meanwhile, Karachi Central Jail authorities reflected on the prison’s transformation over the years. A senior official noted that until 2017, the jail was plagued by violence, drug use, and a lack of security personnel, mirroring the deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi at the time.

“During those years, many of our officers were martyred. In 2017, the escape of two high-profile inmates led to my appointment here. Today, no criminal or terrorist holds sway within the jail,” the official stated.

The official also highlighted significant educational reforms within the prison. “Prisoners are now enrolling in higher education programs, with many completing their intermediate and graduation studies annually,” he said.

The fate of the two pardoned inmates now lies with the state, as they await a final decision on their clemency appeal.