John Apea to lead clemency petition for Ato Essien on justice and human rights grounds

Dr. John Apea, the Head of Mission for the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, has announced plans to spearhead a formal petition calling for a presidential pardon for William Ato Essien, the embattled founder of the defunct Capital Bank.
Dr. Apea’s decision, he says, is grounded in concerns over what he describes as a miscarriage of justice and worsening health conditions affecting Mr. Essien.
The move, he believes, aligns with the principles of justice, fairness, and human rights that form the foundation of the Commonwealth Charter.
“This petition is not a defence of financial mismanagement,” Dr. Apea stated.
“It is a call for a more balanced and humane approach to justice — one that takes into account not only legal outcomes but also the human condition and our moral responsibility as a nation.”
Mr. Essien was convicted in connection with the collapse of Capital Bank and is currently serving a custodial sentence. His legal team had previously negotiated a repayment agreement with the state, which has sparked debate over the appropriateness of the final judgment.
Recent reports indicating a decline in his health have further intensified public concern.
Dr. Apea indicated that preparations for the petition are already underway and that it will be submitted to the Office of the President.
He noted that he is consulting with a range of civic and legal stakeholders, including religious leaders and human rights advocates, to build national support for the effort.
“A nation must be strong enough to correct its mistakes and compassionate enough to protect its vulnerable,” he said.
“If we truly believe in justice, we must be willing to revisit outcomes that may not reflect our highest ideals — especially when life and dignity are at stake.”
He also emphasized that Ghana, as a member of the Commonwealth, bears a responsibility to uphold international human rights norms, particularly in cases involving ill health and the treatment of prisoners.
The proposed clemency petition is expected to reopen discussion about Ghana’s criminal justice system and the role of presidential pardons in advancing both accountability and mercy
Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah
Trending News
S/R: President Mahama assures trad leaders of key projects including regional hospital
21:14Minority accuses Mahama gov't of repackaging Akufo-Addo administration's road projects as new
10:27Mahama appoints Korean national as envoy to South Korea
13:06PRINPAG unveils official list of candidates for 2025 National Executive Elections
02:46Agricultural Small & Micro Enterprises Grant Initiative 2025 ‘fake and fraudulent’ – Agric Ministry warns
20:51Minority decries skewed road allocations in Mid-Year Budget
10:19CDS presents UN compensation to injured Ghanaian peacekeeper
10:19Defence Ministry uncovers ammunition theft in Ghana Armed Forces
02:13UE/R: GAF transitions from peacekeeping to peace enforcement in Bawku
20:55Attorney-General to give update on ORAL at Gov't Accountability Series today
09:29