Burundi’s President grants clemency to almost half of country’s prisoners

Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye has ordered the release of about 41 percent of the country’s prison population of 13,211, those charged with minor crimes. News report says the president hopes the amnesty will enable those freed to change their behavior and contribute to the country’s development. Agathon Rwasa, leader of Burundi’s main opposition party, the National Freedom Council (CNL), tells VOA’s James Butty, the release of prisoners does not include those arrested for their political beliefs and affiliation