KARACHI: Two death row inmates at Karachi Central Jail were granted clemency by the victim’s family just 24 hours before their scheduled execution.
According to sources, the two prisoners, who are close friends, were convicted of murder in 2014.
Recalling the moment, one of the inmates shared, “We were set to be executed, but a day before, the victim’s family forgave us. We now appeal to the President for mercy, as we deeply regret our actions.”
He further explained, “At the time of the incident, I was just 17 and a half years old, and my friend was 18. We were young and made a grave mistake. Since the victim’s family has pardoned us, why is the state still punishing us? We have already spent 19 years in prison.”
Meanwhile, jail authorities noted that conditions at Karachi Central Jail were dire until 2017, marked by rampant violence, drug abuse, and a shortage of security personnel amid deteriorating law and order in Karachi.
“During that period, many of our officers were martyred. In 2017, two high-profile inmates escaped, leading to my appointment here. Today, no criminal or terrorist wields influence inside the jail,” a senior prison official stated.
The official also emphasized the jail’s educational reforms, highlighting that inmates are now enrolling in higher education programs, with many successfully completing their intermediate and graduation studies each year.
