Mahama grants presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons

President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardons to 863 convicted individuals as part of celebrations marking Ghana's 70th Independence Anniversary. The pardons were handed out in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, after consultation with the Council of State. The act of mercy was designed to coincide with the independence anniversary and promote national reflection, according to a statement issued on October 5.

The largest group of recipients, numbering 819, were first-time offenders and received outright release. Additionally, 13 individuals aged 70 years or older and six seriously ill persons also received outright pardons. Eleven convicted persons had their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment, while six others serving life sentences had their sentences reduced to 20 years definite.

Two individuals in the special recommendation category were granted outright release, and three petitions and three other cases were approved, bringing the total number of pardon beneficiaries to 863.

The relevant state institutions have been instructed to implement the President's decision accordingly.