Zambia frees prisoners to mark Africa Day

Zambia’s President Edgar Lungu has pardoned 464 prisoners to mark Africa Day, which is being celebrated across the continent on Friday.

But those released do not include prisoners convicted for the defilement of children, Home Affairs Minister Stephen Kampyongo has said.

Mr Kampyongo said it was within Mr Lungu’s powers as president to pardon prisoners.

Dozens of inmates also had their death sentences commuted to life, he added.