The President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo has exercised his prerogative of mercy, in accordance with Article 72 (1) of the Constitution, to pardon certain convicted persons.
One of the major beneficiaries of the President’s pardon is William Ato Essien, founder of the collapsed Capital Bank.
Ato Essien was convicted for his role in the collapse of Capital Bank and sentenced to pay GHS90million. He defaulted after paying part of the money. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison in December 2023.
The presidency contends that Mr Ato Essien is suffering from severe life-threatening medical conditions and has undergone multiple surgeries as a result hence the pardon.
Below is a statement from the presidency:
By Isaac Nuamah Yeboah