The Gambian government is responding to public concerns over a recent presidential clemency granted to 56 inmates at Mile 2 Central Prison.

The pardon has sparked debate, particularly because no female prisoners were included among the beneficiaries, raising questions about gender balance in the exercise of executive mercy.

In response, authorities clarified that the decision was guided strictly by established legal and eligibility criteria, not by considerations of gender inclusion.

Officials maintain that the clemency process followed due procedure, even as discussions continue around transparency and fairness in future presidential pardons.