Lebanese parliament approves general amnesty law

Lebanon's parliament has approved a law on general amnesty and reduced prison terms, the largest such move in the country since the end of the civil war in 1990, Report informs, citing Arab News.

The law was adopted following a roll-call vote after lengthy political disputes.

About 8,000 convicted prisoners and people awaiting trial are currently held in Lebanese prisons.

Under the law, people who have spent more than 14 years in custody without a verdict must be released. Court proceedings in their cases will continue.

The amnesty also applies to prisoners who have already served their sentences but remain in custody because they are unable to pay fines.

The law covers some categories of people convicted of drug use and drug-related offenses, as well as theft. However, exceptions are provided for certain categories of offenders, including repeat offenders.

The law also allows some Lebanese citizens living abroad to return to the country.

The amnesty does not apply to people who committed serious crimes, including terrorism, war crimes, treason and espionage.