President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons in commemoration of Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The pardon was exercised in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, following consultation with the Council of State.
In a statement issued by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, Presidential Spokesman and Minister of Government Communications, the President said the grant of pardon marked a significant milestone in the nation’s history with “an act of mercy and national reflection.”
The statement said relevant state institutions had been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
The categories of persons granted the pardon are as follows:
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| First Offenders (Outright Releases) | 819 |
| Very Old (70 years and above) (Outright Release) | 13 |
| Death Sentence to be commuted to Life Sentence | 11 |
| Seriously ill (Outright Release) | 6 |
| Life sentence commuted to 20 years definite | 6 |
| Special Recommendation (Outright Release) | 2 |
| Petitions | 3 |
| Others | 3 |
| Total | 863 |
The largest beneficiary group was first offenders, who accounted for 819 of the 863 pardons, all receiving outright release.
Thirteen prisoners aged 70 years and above were also released outright, while 11 death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment.
Six seriously ill inmates were granted outright release, and six life sentences were commuted to 20-year definite terms.
Two persons were released on special recommendation, while three petitions and three other cases were also granted.