The Ghana Prisons Service has clarified that Patricia Asiedua, founder of the Heaven Way Champion International Church and popularly known as Agradaa or Evangelist Mama Pat, does not qualify for the recent presidential amnesty.

Public Relations Officer of the Prisons Service, Chief Superintendent Abdul Latif, explained that Agradaa has not served half of her prison term, which is a key requirement under the Amnesty programme.

Although her offence is classified as a first-degree felony, her incomplete sentence duration automatically disqualifies her.

He stressed that eligibility for amnesty is strictly based on specific criteria, including serving a substantial portion of the sentence, exhibiting good behaviour, and meeting other requirements set by the Prisons Service.

The clarification, he added, underscores the Service’s commitment to fairness and adherence to due process in the selection of beneficiaries.

Nana Agradaa, a former traditional priestess turned evangelist, was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Circuit Court in Accra on July 3, 2025.

The sentence follows her conviction for charlatanic advertisement and obtaining money by false pretenses. She was found guilty of deceiving victims during a televised broadcast in 2022, where she falsely claimed to have spiritual powers capable of doubling money.

Many individuals were persuaded to part with large sums, hoping for miraculous financial returns that never came. She's in court appealing her sentence.

President John Mahama has granted amnesty to 998 prisoners across the country.

The decision, based on the recommendation of the Prisons Service Council and in consultation with the Council of State, was made in line with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution.

A total of 1,014 prisoners had been recommended for consideration, but the figure was further reduced on further assessment.

A statement signed by Minister of Government Communications and presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu explained that the amnesty covered several categories of prisoners.

The breakdown is as follows:

First-time offenders: 787
Death sentences commuted to life imprisonment: 87
Life sentences commuted to 20 years' definite term: 51
Seriously ill prisoners: 33
Prisoners over 70 years old (irrespective of offence): 36
Nursing mothers: 2
Special petitions: 2