President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons as part of activities commemorating Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The President exercised the prerogative of mercy in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution and following consultation with the Council of State.
This was contained in a statement signed by the President’s Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
According to the statement, the pardon is intended to mark the anniversary with an act of mercy and national reflection. The relevant state institutions have been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
*Breakdown of beneficiaries:*
– 819 first-time offenders granted outright release
– 13 convicts aged 70 years and above granted outright release
– 6 seriously ill persons granted release
– 11 persons on death row have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment
– 6 life sentences commuted to 20-year definite sentences
– 2 persons granted outright release under special recommendations
– 3 beneficiaries granted pardon following petitions
– 3 persons under other categories
The President’s decision was announced on Monday, October 5, 2026.
*Source: CitiNewsroom*
