President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons as part of commemorative activities marking Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The President exercised the prerogative of mercy under Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, following consultation with the Council of State.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency on Monday, October 5, 2026, the pardon is intended to mark the significant national milestone with an act of mercy and reflection.
The beneficiaries fall into several categories.
A total of 819 first offenders have been granted outright release, while 13 persons aged 70 years and above will also be released.
In addition, 11 death sentences have been commuted to life imprisonment, while six persons serving life sentences will have their sentences commuted to 20 years definite.
Another six seriously ill prisoners have been granted outright release, while two persons have been released based on special recommendations.
The President has also granted pardons to three persons following petitions, with three others falling under the “Others” category.
The Presidency said relevant state institutions have been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
The move forms part of the government’s commemoration of Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary and highlights the constitutional power of the President to exercise mercy in appropriate cases.
By: Bernard Mensah
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