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President John Dramani Mahama has granted amnesty to 998 prisoners across the country, following recommendations from the Prisons Service Council and consultations with the Council of State. The decision was taken in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution.
Out of 1,014 inmates initially recommended for consideration, the final figure was reduced after a detailed assessment.
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A statement signed by Minister of Government Communications and presidential spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, outlined the categories of beneficiaries as follows:
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First-time offenders – 787
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Death sentences commuted to life imprisonment – 87
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Life sentences commuted to 20 years definite term – 51
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Seriously ill prisoners – 33
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Inmates aged 70 years and above – 36
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Nursing mothers – 2
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Special petitions granted – 2
The amnesty forms part of ongoing efforts to decongest the country’s prisons while giving deserving inmates a second chance at reintegration into society.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem