His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, has granted presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons in commemoration of Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Presidency Communications on Monday, October 5, 2026, and signed by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP.
According to the statement, the President exercised his prerogative of mercy in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution and following consultation with the Council of State.
The pardon is to mark the significant milestone in the nation’s history with an act of mercy and national reflection.
The Presidency has directed all relevant state institutions to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
Breakdown of beneficiaries:
– First Offenders (Outright Release): 819
– Very Old (70 years and above) (Outright Release): 13
– Death Sentence to be commuted to Life Sentence: 11
– Seriously ill (Outright Release): 6
– Life sentence commuted to 20 years definite: 6
– Special Recommendation (Outright Release): 2
– Petitions: 3
– Others: 3
– Total: 863
