President John Dramani Mahama has granted a presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons as part of activities marking Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The decision was taken under Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution following consultations with the Council of State. MyJoyOnline reported the development on October 5, 2026.
A statement signed by Government Communications Minister and presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said the pardon was intended to mark the national milestone through an act of mercy and reflection.
The largest group to benefit comprises 819 first-time offenders, all of whom have been granted outright release.
Thirteen convicted persons aged 70 years and above have also been granted outright release, while six seriously ill prisoners have similarly been released.
The President has also commuted the sentences of six people serving life imprisonment to 20 years.
In addition, the death sentences of 11 convicted persons have been commuted to life imprisonment.
Two other prisoners have been granted outright release following special recommendations, while three cases considered under petitions were also approved.
Three additional persons were included under other categories, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 863.
The presidential pardon represents the exercise of the President’s constitutional prerogative of mercy and forms part of the activities associated with Ghana’s upcoming 70th Independence Anniversary.
The relevant state institutions have been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
