President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential pardon to 863 convicted persons, including 819 first offenders approved for outright release and 11 death-row inmates whose sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment.
A statement issued by the Presidency on Monday, October 5, 2026, said the President exercised the prerogative of mercy under Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, following consultation with the Council of State.
Signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the statement described the decision as an act of mercy and national reflection in commemoration of Ghana’s 70th independence anniversary.
First offenders account for the largest group of beneficiaries, with 819 granted outright release.
Another 13 convicted persons aged 70 and above, six seriously ill persons and two beneficiaries considered under special recommendations have also been approved for outright release.
Beyond the releases, 11 death sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment, while six persons serving life sentences will have their sentences reduced to fixed terms of 20 years.
The remaining beneficiaries comprise three persons listed under petitions and three classified as “others.” The statement did not specify the relief granted to those two groups.
The Presidency said relevant state institutions had been directed to take the necessary steps to implement the President’s decision.
It did not disclose the identities of the beneficiaries, the offences for which they were convicted or a timetable for implementing the releases and sentence adjustments.
Below the full statement
