The Upper West Regional Prisons Commander, DDP Alhaji Ousmane Tasembedo, has urged families to support inmates returning to their communities following the grant of presidential amnesty, warning that reintegration support is critical to preventing reoffending.
Eighteen inmates from the Wa Central Prisons were nominated for the 2026 presidential amnesty, with 13 approved. However, 10 of the approved inmates had already completed their sentences and been discharged through the normal prison process before the amnesty approval reached the facility, resulting in the official discharge of the last three.
President John Dramani Mahama granted amnesty to 998 prisoners across Ghana’s correctional facilities, exercising his prerogative of mercy under Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution.
Speaking during the discharge and reintegration exercise of the three in Wa, on October 22, 2026, DDP Tasembedo said the decision reflected the President’s commitment to justice, rehabilitation and giving deserving offenders a second chance.
“The granting of amnesty should not be viewed merely as an act of releasing inmates from prison, but rather it represents an opportunity for transformation, reconciliation, integration, and a fresh beginning,” he said.
The Regional Commander disclosed that two beneficiaries had acquired skills in smock sewing, while another had been trained in tailoring.
He said the Prisons Service, through support secured from Sahara Trade, would provide materials to help the trained beneficiaries establish themselves and earn a living after their discharge.
DDP Tasembedo further revealed that 34 inmates from the Wa Central Prisons had benefited from rehabilitation and reintegration support since 2024.
He said the command monitors former inmates to assess their progress and determine whether the items provided are being used for their intended purposes, adding that follow-up exercises had shown positive results.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, 39-year-old Yakubu Anas expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the opportunity to begin a new chapter of his life, after spending 2 years and 5 months in jail out of 4 years.
He also thanked the prison authorities for the hands-on training received during incarceration, pledging to put the skills acquired to good use and maintain good behaviour.
DDP Tasembedo urged the beneficiaries to remain disciplined, hardworking and law-abiding, cautioning them against actions that could lead to their return to prison.
He also appealed to relatives to support discharged inmates as they reintegrate into society, stressing that family support could help prevent recidivism.
The presidential amnesty was granted upon the recommendation of the Prisons Service Council and in consultation with the Council of State.
For the beneficiaries, the success of the intervention will depend not only on their release but also on their ability to rebuild their lives with the support of their families and communities.
By Ibrahim Abubakari Wangara
