President Akufo-Addo Grants Clemency to 11 Inmates

In a significant act of compassion, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has exercised his constitutional right to grant clemency to eleven individuals imprisoned in Ghana. This decision comes just one day before the conclusion of his term, underscoring a thoughtful consideration of their unique circumstances as outlined in Article 72 (1) of the Constitution.

This decision was made after carefully reviewing each case, taking into account factors such as health conditions, the length of stay in prison, and other relevant mitigating factors. Notable among those pardoned are William Ato Essien, former CEO of the defunct Capital Bank, and Philip Assibit, who was involved in the GYEEDA scandal.

Here are the details of the individuals granted clemency:

1. Akwasi Alhassan: Convicted of murder and sentenced to death in March 1993, Alhassan has now had his sentence commuted to life imprisonment after serving 31 years.
2. Beatrice Ofori: Sentenced to six years for human trafficking in June 2023, Ofori, 64, suffers from severe hypertension and has been primarily residing in the prison infirmary due to her declining health.
3. William Ato Essien: Convicted for the theft of over GH¢90 million from the Bank of Ghana, Essien received a 15-year sentence in December 2023. His serious medical issues, including multiple surgeries, warranted his inclusion in the pardoning process.
4. Frank Obeng: Initially sentenced to 40 years for manslaughter, Obeng’s sentence has been reduced to 12 years following a review.
5. Stephen Nyarko: Nyarko was sentenced to 30 years for conspiracy to commit robbery and has now been pardoned after serving 22 years.
6. Philip Akpeena Assibit: Sentenced to 12 years for causing financial loss to the state, Assibit has served six years and his serious health condition contributed to the decision for his release.
7. Osman Inusah: Although convicted of conspiracy to commit robbery, a petition pointed out his mental health challenges. The pardon allows him to seek appropriate treatment outside of prison.
8. Joseph Nana Kwaku Boateng: Convicted for attempted export and possession of narcotics in May 2019, Boateng has been pardoned after serving 8 years, including five years on remand.
9. Emmanuel Adu Mensah: Convicted of possession of narcotics with a 15-year sentence, Mensah is currently serving his term in prison.
10. Kwame Twum Ampofo: Also sentenced for possession of narcotics, Ampofo is serving a 10-year term.
11. Alexander Andrew Nil Lante Lawson: Convicted of theft and sentenced to 5 years, Lawson’s health had deteriorated significantly, prompting the decision to grant him clemency.

In making these decisions, the President consulted with the Council of State to ensure that the process was thorough and just. This initiative reflects a commitment to mercy, particularly in cases where health or personal circumstances indicate that further imprisonment may be unwarranted. The pardoned individuals will now have the chance for rehabilitation and reintegration into society, marking a hopeful new chapter in their lives.