President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons as part of activities marking Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The President exercised the prerogative of mercy in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, following consultation with the Council of State.
The Presidency announced the decision in a statement issued on Monday, October 5, 2026, describing the pardon as an act of mercy and national reflection to commemorate the independence milestone.
The largest category comprises 819 first offenders who have been granted outright release.
Thirteen persons aged 70 years and above have also been granted outright release, while six seriously ill convicts will equally be released.
Under the decision, 11 death sentences have been commuted to life imprisonment, while six life sentences have been commuted to 20-year definite sentences.
Two persons granted pardon fall under the category of special recommendations, while three cases were considered under petitions. Another three persons were listed under “others”.
The breakdown is as follows:
- First offenders (outright release): 819
- Persons aged 70 years and above (outright release): 13
- Death sentences commuted to life imprisonment: 11
- Seriously ill persons (outright release): 6
- Life sentences commuted to 20 years definite: 6
- Special recommendations (outright release): 2
- Petitions: 3
- Others: 3
The Presidency said relevant state institutions had been directed to take the necessary steps to give effect to the President’s decision.
