President John Dramani Mahama has exercised his constitutional authority under Article 72(1) to grant amnesty to nine hundred and ninety-eight (998) prisoners.
This momentous decision arises from a total of one thousand and fourteen (1,014) individuals recommended for clemency.
The President acted upon the recommendation of the Prisons Service Council and in consultation with the Council of State.
This initiative exemplifies a profound commitment to justice and compassion within the penal system.
The categories of convicts affected by this significant decision include first-time offenders, with 787 individuals benefiting from the amnesty.
Additionally, death sentences have been commuted to life imprisonment for 87 individuals, while 51 life sentences are being reduced to a definite term of 20 years.
Furthermore, 33 seriously ill prisoners will receive clemency, alongside 36 prisoners over the age of 70, irrespective of their offences. Two nursing mothers and two individuals who submitted petitions for clemency are also included in this compassionate act.
This bold initiative not only underscores the government’s dedication to reform but also reflects a humane approach to sentencing and rehabilitation.
The statement regarding this amnesty was released and signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, who serves as the spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications.
