President Akufo Addo has pardoned William Ato Essien, the founder of defunct Capital Bank, who was sentenced to 15 years in prison.
William Ato Essien was sentenced to 15 years with hard labor by an Accra High Court in December 2023.
He was jailed for his inability to pay back to the state some GH¢90 million, which he was said to have stolen from the bank.
According to a statement from the Office of the President exercised his prerogative of mercy in accordance with Article 72(1) of the constitution, President Akufo-Addo pardon certain convicted persons.
William Ato Essien was convicted in his role in the collapsed of Capital Bank. He defaulted after paying part of the 90 million Ghana cedis.
The information from the office of the president suggest William Ato Essien is suffering from a severe life-threatening medical condition and has undergone multiple surgeries as a result.
Eight others have also been granted pardoned by President Akufo-Addo according to the letter from the office of the President dated dated December 31, 2024.
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo term in office will officially end tomorrow January 7, 2025, with John Mahama swearing in ceremony taking place at the Black Star Square.
