Exercising the prerogative of mercy, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama granted the pardons in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, following formal consultation with the Council of State.
The Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP,confirmed that directives have already been issued to all relevant state institutions to immediately execute the President's orders.
As stated in the official presidential release, this grant of pardon is extended "in commemoration of Ghana's 70th Independence Anniversary, marking this significant milestone in the nation's history with an act of mercy and national reflection".
The pardon encompasses a broad range of prisoner categories, providing outright releases as well as sentence commutations.A substantial majority of those impacted are first offenders, with 819 individuals receiving outright releases.
Outright freedom is also granted to 13 elderly convicts aged 70 years and above,6 seriously ill inmates,2 prisoners recommended under special consideration,3 petition cases, and 3 individuals under other specific categories.Beyond outright releases, the executive order grants critical relief to inmates serving heavy sentences.
Specifically,11 convicts on death row will have their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment, while 6 inmates serving life sentences will have their terms reduced to a 20-year definite sentence. By addressing advanced age, chronic illness, first-time offenses, and severe penalties, this comprehensive policy balances constitutional authority with humanitarian consideration.
The presidential pardon of 863 convicted persons stands as a powerful symbol of compassion and unity as Ghana celebrates 70 years of nationhood. By leveraging constitutional channels to grant clemency and commute severe sentences, the administration reaffirms its dedication to humanitarian justice and national cohesion.
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