The president declared an unprecedented amnesty to thank the Iraqi people for their "unanimity" in last week's referendum which extended his powers for another seven years.

Prisoners were leaving their cells chanting Saddam's name to the delight of their relatives (AFP/AP)

...there were tearful scenes like this all over the country

The "full and complete amnesty" applied to any Iraqi imprisoned or arrested for political or any other reason (AFP/AFP)

But murderers on a death row will be released only with the consent of the victims' families

Overjoyed relatives even stormed Iraq's biggest jail near Baghdad following the announcement

...and they had to flee the guards after the break-in