In celebration of Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary, President John Dramani Mahama has pardoned 863 people who had been found guilty of crimes.
In accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution and after consulting the Council of State, the President exercised the prerogative of mercy.
The pardon is meant to commemorate the anniversary with an act of mercy and national introspection, according to a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President’s spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications.
The President’s order has been implemented by ordering the appropriate government entities to do the required actions.
819 first offenders have received outright release among the 863 beneficiaries. In addition to the absolute discharge of six critically sick individuals, thirteen prisoners who are 70 years old or older have also received outright discharge.
While six life sentences have been converted to 20-year finite terms, the sentences of eleven individuals on death row have been reduced to life imprisonment.
Three beneficiaries were pardoned in response to petitions, while two people were granted outright release due to particular recommendations. In additional three categories, people are not counted.
On Monday, October 5, 2026, the President’s decision was made public.
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