President Akufo-Addo Grants Presidential Pardons to Ato Essien and Other Convicts

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has extended presidential clemency to nine convicts, including Ato Essien, the former CEO of the defunct Capital Bank, as part of a year-end pardon initiative aimed at promoting reconciliation and compassion.

Ato Essien, whose financial mismanagement led to the collapse of Capital Bank and contributed to Ghana’s financial sector crisis, was serving a 15-year prison sentence handed down in October 2023.

His conviction followed his failure to fulfil a restitution agreement to repay GH¢90 million to the state.

Essien’s release is reportedly tied to severe health conditions, with reports indicating that he has undergone multiple surgeries.

Philip Assibit, convicted for causing financial loss to the state through a fraudulent $4 million loan transaction under GYEEDA, was also pardoned.

His 12-year sentence has been cut short as part of the clemency initiative, with many noting the symbolic gesture of forgiveness even in cases of significant public interest.

The pardons extended beyond high-profile cases to include individuals convicted of offences ranging from murder to narcotics-related crimes. The seven additional beneficiaries are:

1. Akwasi Alhassan—A death row inmate since 1993 for murder, now serving a life sentence.
2. Beatrice Ofori—convicted in 2023 for human trafficking, her pardon reflects considerations of her advanced age (64) and deteriorating health.
3. Frank Obeng—serving 40 years for manslaughter, his sentence has been reduced to 12 years.
4. Stephen Nyarko—convicted of robbery, he has served 22 years of a 30-year sentence.
5. Osman Inusah—convicted for conspiracy to commit robbery; his pardon is linked to mental health challenges.
6. Joseph Nana Kwaku Boateng – Serving time for narcotics offences since 2019, with eight years completed.
7. Emmanuel Adu Mensah—Convicted in 2024 for possession of narcotics, he remains incarcerated with possible adjustments to his sentence.