President Mahama pardons 863 convicted persons
President Mahama grants pardon to 863 convicted persons, including first offenders, elderly and seriously ill prisoners.
President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons as part of activities commemorating Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The decision was taken in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, following consultations with the Council of State.
A statement issued by the Presidency Communications on Monday October 5, said the pardon forms part of an act of mercy and national reflection to mark the significant milestone in Ghana’s history.
The categories of persons covered by the presidential pardon include 819 first offenders, who have been granted outright release, and 13 very old prisoners aged 70 years and above, also granted outright release.
In addition, 11 persons serving death sentences will have their sentences commuted to life imprisonment, while six seriously ill prisoners have been granted outright release.
The President has also commuted the life sentences of six prisoners to 20-year definite sentences, while two persons have been granted outright release under special recommendations.
Three petitions and three other cases are also covered by the presidential pardon.
The statement said relevant state institutions have been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
The pardon, according to the Presidency, is intended to reflect the values of mercy, compassion and national reconciliation as Ghana commemorates the milestone.
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