Over 1,200 Cambodian Prisoners Seek Clemency Ahead of Holidays

PHNOM PENH, April 1, 2026 (KPT) — More than 1,200 Cambodian prisoners have applied for sentence reductions and royal pardons ahead of major national holidays, officials said Wednesday.

A total of 1,254 inmates, including 105 women, submitted requests for clemency, according to the Ministry of Justice. Of these, 668 petitions — 53 from women — were linked to Khmer New Year, while 586 applications, including 52 women, were filed in connection with Visak Bochea Day.

The review was conducted March 31 at the Ministry of Justice under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Koeut Rith.

The national committee responsible for evaluating prisoner requests examined each case as part of the formal process leading to potential approval.

Applications were gathered from prisons across the country, including 24 municipal and provincial facilities as well as four correctional centres. Senior justice officials, prosecutors and prison administrators attended the session.

Pardons and sentence reductions are traditionally granted during major holidays in Cambodia, following recommendations from the justice ministry and final approval by the monarch.

Authorities said the process reflects the government’s commitment to balancing justice with compassion, while easing overcrowding in correctional facilities.

Officials added that the review underscores cooperation between the judiciary and prison system, ensuring clemency decisions are carefully considered before being submitted for royal endorsement.