Accra: Mr. Francis Ahovi, Executive Director of Global Security for Africa Research and Good Governance (GLOSARRG), has commended President John Dramani Mahama for granting amnesty to prisoners across the country. He stated that the decision was appropriate in promoting democracy and good governance, as humanitarian efforts remained critical and essential for the peace of Ghana and the entire West Africa Sub-Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama recently granted amnesty to 998 prisoners, following the recommendation of the Prisons Service Council, in consultation with the Council of State, and in accordance with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution. This was detailed in a statement signed by Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications.
The statement indicated that the amnesty included 787 prisoners who are first-time offenders, 87 persons on death sentence commuted to life imprisonment, and 51 commuted to a 20-year definite term. Additionally, it included 33 prisoners having serious illnesses, 36 over 70 years old, two nursing mothers, and two individuals on petitions.
Residents of Akatsi South expressed that the development should not motivate criminals to engage in violence or offensive conduct. They urged law enforcement agencies, particularly the Ghana Police Service, to remain proactive in addressing law offenses in society.
A resident shared with the Ghana News Agency, "I think this action by the President is in the right order." The decision aligns with the President's constitutional mandate to exercise the prerogative of mercy in deserving cases. A total of 1,014 inmates were recommended for amnesty, out of which 998 were approved.
