Fmr. Deputy Nat’l Security Coordinator granted presidential pardon due to ill-health
Former Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Salifu Mimina Osman has been granted a presidential pardon by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in accordance with Article 72(1)(a) of the 1992 Constitution.
The President says Alhaji Mimina Osman deserves a presidential pardon on the grounds of ill health, compassion and good behaviour based on a petition lodged at the Office of President by the Paramount Chief of Kpembe Traditional Area, Kpembewura Haruna Dari Bismark Banbange Ndefoso I on July 19, 2021.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the President, Nana Bediatuo Asante, on August 1, 2023, it was indicated the President has directed the Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, to release Alhaji Salifu Mimina Osman from custody.
“I am directed by the President of the Republic to inform you that pursuant to a petition dated 19th July 2021, from the Paramount Chief of Kpembe Traditional Area, Kpembewura Haruna Dari Bismark Banbange Ndefoso I, for a presidential pardon and release of Alhaji Salifu Mimina Osman from lawful custody on the grounds of ill-health and good behaviour, and in consultation with the Council of State, the President has exercised his prerogative of mercy in favour of Alhaji Salifu Mimina Osman and has granted him a pardon, in accordance with Article 72(1)(a) of the 1992 Constitution”, excerpts of the statement says.
The President in addition asked the Minister for the Interior to take the necessary steps to give effect to the presidential pardon immediately.
The Director-General of the Prisons Service was also informed in the statement to act accordingly to the President’s decision.
Background
The Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Eric Kyei Baffour in May 2020 sentenced the former Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Salifu Mimina Osman to five years imprisonment.
Alhaji Mimina Osman was one of three persons found guilty of 14 different charges including causing financial loss to the state and contravention of the Public Procurement Act in the procurement of surveillance equipment for the National Security Council Secretariat.
Former board chair of the National Communications Authority (NCA), Eugene Baffoe Bonnie was sentenced to six years in prison while the former NCA Director-General, William Tevie was sentenced to five years.
The three got a total of 16 years in prison by the Accra High Court with hard labour.
William Tevie and Alhaji Osman were both found guilty on the charges of conspiracy to willfully cause financial loss to the state, contravention of public procurement act and intentionally misapplying public property.
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