By Daily Newsflash | Accra
Published: August 12, 2026
A 67-year-old food vendor, Ama Forson, is finally free after spending 4 years and 7 months in prison over a conviction that has now been overturned.
The case
Madam Forson was convicted and sentenced to 11 years in prison for possession of narcotic drugs.
After years behind bars, the Accra High Court acquitted and discharged her, paving the way for her release.
Her case has raised fresh concerns about access to justice for people who cannot afford legal representation.
How she secured her freedom
Her case was taken up by the POS Foundation’s In-Prison Paralegal Programme.
The initiative helps inmates understand legal procedures, spot irregularities in their cases, and pursue legal remedies.
Through the programme, Madam Forson was able to challenge her conviction.
Speaking at the premiere of a documentary _“The Untold Story of Ama Forson”_ at the Law Court Complex, POS Foundation Executive Director Jonathan Osei Owusu said the programme was created to give hope to vulnerable prisoners.
US Embassy support
Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy, Virginia Elliot, said the US Government is supporting Ghana’s justice system through:
1. Training for prosecutors and lawyers on the Case Tracking System
2. Support for the In-Prison Paralegal Programme
3. Support for the *Ghana Legal Aid Commission to establish Ghana’s first Public Defenders Office
GH¢20,000 for a fresh start
To help her rebuild, Charles Antwi Boahen, CEO of KAB FAM Ghana Limited, presented Madam Forson with a cheque for GH¢20,000 to start a business.
He also pledged electrical appliances and support for her son’s education.
The bigger picture
Madam Forson’s story highlights the impact of wrongful convictions on families and communities, and the importance of prison-based legal aid in preventing miscarriages of justice.
After losing more than 4 years of her life, she is now free and has support to start again.
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