By Francis Kobena Tandoh
President John Dramani Mahama has granted a presidential pardon to a total of 863 prisoners ahead of Ghana’s 70th independence anniversary, according to a statement from the presidency late Monday.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the president’s spokesperson and minister for government communications, stated that the gesture commemorates Ghana’s 70th independence anniversary.
“His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, has, in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution and following consultation with the Council of State, exercised the prerogative of mercy to grant presidential pardon to Eight Hundred and Sixty-Three (863) convicted persons,” read the statement.
Among the categories of persons to be freed are 819 first-time offenders, 13 very old persons (70 years and above) who are to be released immediately, and 11 on death sentences to be commuted to life sentences.
The rest are 6 seriously ill and are to be released immediately; 6 are on life sentences to be commuted to 20 years, 2 special recommendations, 3 petitions, and 3 others.
The statement added that the various state institutions have been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the decision by the Ghanaian leader.
The cocoa-growing, gold, and oil-producing country will celebrate its 70th anniversary on March 6 next year, having been under British colonial rule for 113 years. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
Find the statement from the Presidency Communications below;
