Prisoners are being released in Cameroon after President Paul Biya reduced their sentences in a decree announced on Wednesday.
The decree did not say whether it was related to coronavirus but it takes effect immediately.
It reduced death sentences to life in prison, while those serving life sentences will now serve 25 years.
Prisoners jailed on terrorism-related charges and separatists are not eligible for commuted sentences. Others who are ineligible include those convicted for corruption, fraud, rape, torture and drug trafficking.
President Biya has been criticised locally for his silence over the spread of coronavirus - with confirmed cases at 848, including 17 deaths - in the country.
Opposition politician Maurice Kamto wants a court to declare a power vacuum owing to the president's silence, Bloomberg website reports
Latest Stories
-
Africa Development Council urges ECOWAS action amid Togo’s constitutional crisis
2 hours -
Situate power sector challenges within the context of the 4th Republic – Jantuah
2 hours -
Empowering Youth through IT Education: IT For Youth Ghana College leads the way
2 hours -
Trump criminal case: Full 12-person jury seated in Manhattan
3 hours -
Israel Gaza: US again warns against Rafah offensive
3 hours -
Man arrested in Poland over alleged Russia plot to kill Zelensky
3 hours -
Over 100 arrested as US college Gaza protest cleared
3 hours -
Justmoh Construction begins work on dualization of Takoradi-Agona Nkwanta road
3 hours -
MGL visits Dumor family following passing of Mawuena Trebarh
3 hours -
In Pursuit of Peace and Unity: Interfaith Leaders Promote Dialogue – Chief Doli-Wura to Africa Union
4 hours -
TEWU raises concern over quality of food served in SHS
4 hours -
Ghanaian students gear up for Robotics World Championship
5 hours -
Political interference makes public sector managers appear incompetent – Dr Manteaw
5 hours -
Police arrest truck driver alleged to have caused train crash
5 hours -
CAF Confederation Cup: Dreams FC depart to Cairo ahead of semis first leg against Zamalek
5 hours