Public backlash as Dr. John Apea petitions for Ato Essien’s presidential pardon

A growing number of Ghanaians on social media have strongly opposed a petition led by Dr. John Apea, Head of Mission for the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, calling for the release of William Ato Essien, the jailed founder of the now-defunct Capital Bank.

Dr. Apea’s campaign, which seeks a presidential pardon, has triggered a storm of criticism, with many citizens labeling the move as insensitive and unjustified.

In a widely circulated media statement, Dr. Apea described Mr. Essien’s imprisonment as a “travesty of justice.”

He argued that the legal process that led to the former banker’s conviction was flawed and claimed that humanitarian grounds—including Mr. Essien’s declining health—should warrant compassionate intervention.

“This is not about defending wrongdoing,” Dr. Apea emphasized. “This is about ensuring that justice in our country aligns with fairness, human dignity, and compassion—the very ideals upheld by the Commonwealth.”

Despite this rationale, public reaction has been swift and scathing. Many Ghanaians took to social media to express outrage at the idea of pardoning Mr. Essien, who was convicted in 2023 for his role in the collapse of Capital Bank, a case that shook public confidence in the financial sector.

Critics are questioning why someone convicted of serious financial crimes should be considered for clemency. “Then they should release all prisoners,” one user commented sarcastically.

Others warned political leaders to steer clear of such moves, with one commenter urging, “President Mahama must not try to destroy the goodwill he is currently enjoying.”

Dr. Apea, however, maintains that the petition will highlight procedural gaps and human rights concerns. He plans to submit the petition to the Office of the President, backed by civic, religious, and legal voices.

As the petition gains attention, the case is once again pushing Ghanaians to grapple with difficult questions about justice, rehabilitation, and equality before the law. –Source 3news.com