Mahama Pardons 863 Prisoners to Mark Ghana's 70th Independence Anniversary

President John Dramani Mahama has granted executive pardons to 863 convicted persons across the country.

The presidential prerogative of mercy was exercised to commemorate Ghana’s upcoming 70th Independence Anniversary milestone.

An official statement signed by Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed the high-level decision on Monday, October 5, 2026.

The executive action was carried out in consultation with the Council of State, pursuant to Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution.

Under the approved framework, at least 840 beneficiaries will be released from correctional facilities completely free.

The vast majority of those released are first-time offenders who demonstrated good behavior while serving their terms.

The amnesty also covers vulnerable categories, including 13 elderly inmates aged 70 and above, as well as several severely ill convicts.

Furthermore, the President commuted death sentences to life imprisonment and reduced long-term sentences for multiple inmates.

The massive pardon is expected to significantly ease severe overcrowding across various national prison facilities.

Relevant state security institutions and the Ghana Prisons Service have been instructed to execute the release directives immediately.