In a remarkable act of clemency, President Akufo-Addo of Ghana invoked his prerogative of mercy under Article 72(1) of the Constitution to grant pardons and reduce sentences for nine convicted individuals.
The announcement was made in a letter from the Office of the President dated December 31, 2024, marking the end of the year with a message of hope and rehabilitation.
The individuals who benefited from this act of clemency include both those with severe health challenges and those who have shown signs of reformation during their incarceration. Among them are:
- Akwasi Alhassan: Convicted of murder in 1993 and sentenced to death, he has spent 31 years in prison. His death sentence has been commuted to life imprisonment.
- Beatrice Ofori: A 64-year-old woman convicted of human trafficking in 2023 and sentenced to eight years with hard labor. Due to serious health challenges, including restricted mobility and hypertension, she spends most of her time in the prison infirmary.
- William Ato Essien: Found guilty for his role in the collapse of Capital Bank, he was sentenced to 15 years for failing to pay GH₵90 million restitution. His pardon comes after severe, life-threatening medical conditions.
- Frank Obeng: Convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 40 years, his sentence has been reduced to 12 years. He has been serving his term in Nsawam Prison.
- Stephen Nyarko: Convicted of conspiracy to rob and sentenced to 30 years in 2010, he has already served 22 years, including time in remand.
- Philip Akpeena Assibit: Sentenced to 12 years in 2018 for financial loss to the state during his tenure with the National Youth Employment Programme. After serving six years, his appeal for clemency on health grounds was granted.
- Osman Inusah: Convicted of conspiracy to commit robbery despite being found not guilty of armed robbery. His pardon comes in light of mental health challenges that require treatment at home.
- Joseph Nana Kwaku Boateng: Convicted of attempted narcotics export and possession in 2019, he has served eight years, including five in remand.
- Emmanuel Adu Mensah: Currently serving a 15-year sentence for narcotics possession, his term was set to end in April 2024. His pardon facilitates early reintegration into society.
The President’s decision reflects a commitment to balancing justice with mercy, emphasizing the potential for rehabilitation and the consideration of humanitarian circumstances. This move has sparked discussions on the role of executive clemency in promoting a more compassionate justice system while ensuring public safety.
These pardons symbolize a second chance for the beneficiaries to contribute positively to society, with many advocacy groups applauding the decision as a step toward restorative justice in Ghana.
