President John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential clemency to 863 convicted persons as Ghana commemorates its 70th Independence Anniversary, in a major act of mercy and national reflection.

The decision, announced on Monday, October 5, 2026, was made under Article 72(1) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution after consultation with the Council of State.

According to the official breakdown, 819 first-time offenders have been granted outright release, representing the largest group of beneficiaries.

Thirteen prisoners aged 70 years and above have also been approved for immediate release, while six inmates described as seriously ill will regain their freedom under the presidential pardon.

The clemency package also affects inmates serving some of the country’s most severe sentences. Eleven prisoners on death row have had their sentences reduced to life imprisonment, while six people serving life sentences will now serve definite 20-year terms.

Two additional prisoners were granted outright release under special recommendations, while three beneficiaries received clemency following petitions. Another three cases were approved under other categories.

A statement signed by President Mahama’s spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, described the exercise as part of activities marking Ghana’s milestone anniversary through compassion, reflection and mercy.

Relevant state institutions have now been directed to implement the President’s decision and ensure that all approved beneficiaries receive the changes to their sentences or releases.

The move is expected to generate public discussion around rehabilitation, second chances and Ghana’s justice system as the country reflects on seven decades of independence.

For hundreds of affected inmates and their families, the presidential pardon represents a dramatic turning point offering freedom to some and reduced sentences to others as Ghana enters a new chapter in its national journey.