His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday directed the government to draft a general pardon law and proceed with its constitutional stages, to alleviate the challenges and pressures facing citizens.

King Abdullah stressed that the general amnesty should respect the rule of law, avoiding harm to national security, society and the rights of citizens.

His Majesty also called for giving citizens who have made mistakes and are going through difficult circumstances an opportunity to correct their course and behaviour.

The King said the general pardon bill should contribute to alleviating the economic burden and difficult conditions citizens are going through, preserving their dignity.

His Majesty stressed the importance of the amnesty bill in promoting tolerance and forgiveness, taking into account the personal and civil rights of those impacted within the framework of the rule of law and justice.

The King expressed hope that the pardon would further nurture the sense of belonging and the concept of social safety while offering a chance to those in correctional and rehabilitation centres to return to their lives, jobs, and families again.