87 Death Row Inmates Spared from Execution, 998 Prisoners Granted Amnesty
Accra - Monday, August 18, 2025 - In a remarkable display of mercy and compassion, President John Dramani Mahama has granted amnesty to 998 prisoners, including 87 death row inmates who will have their sentences commuted to life imprisonment. This decision was announced on Monday, August 18, 2025, following recommendations from the Prisons Service Council and consultations with the Council of State, in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution.
The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed the decision in a statement, highlighting the government's commitment to addressing prison congestion and promoting rehabilitation.
Breakdown of Beneficiaries
- 87 Death Row Inmates: Their death sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment, sparing them from capital punishment.
- 787 First-Time Offenders: These individuals will be released, providing them with a second chance.
- 51 Life Sentence Commutations: Prisoners serving life sentences will have their terms reduced to 20-year definite sentences.
- 33 Seriously Ill Prisoners: These inmates will be granted amnesty due to their critical health conditions.
- 36 Elderly Prisoners: Prisoners over 70 years old will be released, irrespective of their offense.
- 2 Nursing Mothers: These women will be freed to care for their children.
- 2 Special Petitions: Two prisoners who submitted successful petitions will also be granted amnesty.
Objective of the Amnesty
The presidential amnesty aims to decongest Ghana's prisons, promote fairness, and extend humanitarian relief to specific categories of convicts. By exercising his constitutional authority, President Mahama has demonstrated his commitment to humane governance and rehabilitation.
Constitutional Basis
The decision is grounded in Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which empowers the President to grant pardons, respites, or remit punishments. This constitutional provision forms the basis of the President's prerogative of mercy.
The release of these prisoners is expected to bring relief to the prisoners and their families, while also contributing to the decongesting of Ghana's prisons. The decision has been seen as a step towards promoting humanity and compassion in the justice system.
Source - Lead News Online/Leticia Okpoti
