President John Dramani Mahama has exercised the prerogative of mercy to pardon 863 convicted persons as part of activities commemorating Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The decision was taken in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution and follows consultation with the Council of State.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency on Monday, October 5, 2026, the presidential pardon is intended to mark the significant national milestone through an act of mercy and reflection.
The affected persons fall into several categories, with the largest group comprising first-time offenders who have been granted outright release.
The statement indicates that 819 first offenders have been granted outright release.
A further 13 persons aged 70 years and above have also been granted outright release under the category for very old prisoners.
In addition, 11 persons serving death sentences will have their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.
The President has also granted outright release to six seriously ill convicted persons.
Another two persons serving life sentences will have their sentences commuted to 20-year definite terms.
The remaining beneficiaries include three persons granted outright release on special recommendation, while three others benefited from the petitions category.
The Presidency said the various categories bring the total number of beneficiaries to 863.
The relevant state institutions have been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
The exercise forms part of the constitutional powers vested in the President under Article 72, which provides for the exercise of the prerogative of mercy after consultation with the Council of State.
The announcement was signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications.
The presidential pardon comes as Ghana commemorates its 70th Independence Anniversary, with the Presidency framing the gesture as an opportunity for national reflection and the exercise of mercy towards persons serving various sentences.
By 1960news.com
