Baku: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan has put forward an initiative to declare an amnesty in honor of the Year of Constitution and Sovereignty.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, this proposal is rooted in Azerbaijan’s historical achievements and the humanitarian traditions championed by the nation. The initiative acknowledges the foundational work of Heydar Aliyev in establishing and strengthening the independent Azerbaijani state and its constitution.

The proposed amnesty act is expected to be significant, potentially benefiting over 20,000 individuals. It aims to release those who participated in the defense of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty, including the Patriotic War and the anti-terror operations. Close relatives of those who were killed, went missing, or became disabled due to military actions are also considered in the draft, alongside women, the elderly, minors, and other specific groups.

The proposal includes provisions for releasing or reducing sentences for individuals convicted of lesser offenses or crimes committed through negligence. This initiative is seen as the largest amnesty in Azerbaijan’s history, with projections indicating the release of over 5,000 convicts and sentence reductions for more than 3,000 imprisoned individuals. The plan also covers exemptions from various non-custodial sentences and criminal liabilities for thousands more.

President Aliyev has submitted the draft amnesty to the Milli Majlis, emphasizing the rehabilitative value of the initiative and its potential to foster legal compliance and contribute to the country’s development. The proposal highlights the continued commitment to humanism and compassion within Azerbaijan’s governance.