Mahama pardons 863 convicts to mark Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary

President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardons and sentence reductions to 863 convicted persons as Ghana marks its 70th Independence Anniversary.

The decision was taken under Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which empowers the President to exercise the prerogative of mercy after consultation with the Council of State.

A statement issued on Monday, October 5, said the gesture was intended to commemorate the anniversary through an act of mercy and national reflection.

The largest number of beneficiaries are 819 first-time offenders, all of whom have been granted outright release.

The list also includes 13 convicted persons aged 70 years and above, as well as six seriously ill inmates, who have also been granted outright release.

For 11 persons sentenced to death, their sentences have been commuted to life imprisonment.

Six other inmates serving life sentences will now serve definite terms of 20 years.

Two persons considered under a special recommendation category have also been granted outright release.

The statement further indicated that three petitions and three additional cases were approved, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 863.

The announcement was signed by the President’s spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

Relevant state institutions have been instructed to take the necessary steps to implement the President’s decision.