Power of Mercy CEO Welcomes Cabinet Approval of Pardon Reform Bill
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By John Kariuki
Lydia Muriuki, the Chief Executive Officer of the Power of Mercy Advisory Committee (POMAC), has welcomed the Cabinet’s approval of the Power of Mercy Bill, 2025, describing it as a historic step toward modernizing Kenya’s presidential pardon system.
The Bill seeks to streamline and clarify the implementation of Article 133 of the Constitution, which grants the President powers to exercise mercy through pardons, commutations, and reprieves. Muriuki hailed the Cabinet’s decision as timely and progressive, noting that it will strengthen the legal framework guiding clemency processes while ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness.
“This Bill marks a significant milestone in our country’s justice and rehabilitation agenda. It will not only provide clarity on how mercy petitions are handled but also modernize the entire pardon process to meet international standards of justice and human rights,” she said.
She emphasized that the reform will boost public confidence in the clemency system by ensuring that decisions are made within a clear legal framework and guided by well-defined criteria.
“The power of mercy is a constitutional safeguard that must balance compassion, justice, and public safety. This Bill provides the necessary tools to achieve that balance,” she added.
Once enacted, the Power of Mercy Bill, 2025, is expected to improve rehabilitation outcomes for deserving individuals while enhancing Kenya’s human rights profile globally. Muriuki expressed optimism that Parliament will prioritize the Bill, given its potential to significantly impact justice and social reintegration.
“This reform reflects our country’s commitment to fairness, second chances, and human dignity. It sends a strong message that Kenya believes in restorative justice and rehabilitation,” she concluded.
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