Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki has announced the release of nearly 7,000 prisoners amid ceremonies to mark the country's 41st anniversary of independence from Britain.
Mr. Kibaki said those included in the release had been jailed for petty offenses and were serving fewer than six months in jail.
He made the announcement during a speech to thousands of people gathered at a Nairobi stadium to celebrate Jamhuri, or independence day.
Mr. Kibaki called on Kenyans to take pride in their country, and he expressed hope that lawmakers will approve a new draft constitution to send to a referendum.
He also honored former President Daniel arap Moi, who attended the ceremony.
Some information for this story provided by AFP.