President Mahama Grants Presidential Pardon To 863 Convicts To Mark Ghana's 70th Independence Anniversary

His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, has granted a presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons.

This was contained in a statement from the Presidency Communications Directorate signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, on Monday, October 5, 2026.

According to the statement, the President exercised his prerogative of mercy in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State.

The grant of pardon is in commemoration of Ghana's 70th Independence Anniversary, marking the significant milestone with an act of mercy and national reflection.

The relevant state institutions have been directed 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 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*