Madina MP Francis-Xavier Kojo Sosu has petitioned President Nana Akufo-Addo to commute the sentences of 181 persons currently on death row to life imprisonment.

The lawmaker wants President Akufo-Addo to exercise his prerogative of mercy on behalf of these persons. 

In a petition to President Akufo-Addo dated October 11, the MP said the President is granted such powers under Article 72 of the 1992 Constitution.

“I write for and on behalf of all 181 persons currently on death row in respect of the above subject.”

“I wish to respectfully appeal to your High Office to exercise your prerogative of mercy to commute all persons currently on death sentence to life imprisonment pursuant to the authority granted you under Article 72(1)(c) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.”

He added that his petition follows the “passage and assent of Private Member's Bills to amend the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and Armed Forces Act, 1962 (Act 105) to substitute life imprisonment for the death penalty.”

According to Mr Sosu, should the President grant his request, his legacy will be entrenched. 

“In view of the above, it will be phenomenal if, under your leadership and tenure as President, Ghana appears to be seen and is consistent with recent changes in our laws and related vote at the United Nations in favour of the 9th Resolution for a Moratorium on the use of the death penalty.”

“Sir, this will also go a long way to entrench your legacy for the consequential role played and commitment demonstrated towards the advancement and realization of a more free, open, progressive, inclusive, and secure society.”