The flag bearer of the People’s National
Convention (PNC), Dr Edward Mahama, has expressed disappointment in President
John Mahama for pardoning the three Montie FM contemnors, Salifu Maase (alias
Mugabe), Alistair Nelson, and Ako Gunn, who were jailed for scandalising the
Supreme Court and bringing its name into disrepute.A statement signed by
Communications Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah said: “The President of the
Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, has, in consultation with
the Council of State and in exercise of his constitutional powers under Article
72 of the Constitution, remitted the remainder of the prison sentence imposed on
three persons: Salifu Maase (alias Mugabe), Alistair Nelson and Ako Gunn, who
were sentenced to four months' imprisonment and a fine of GHS10,000.00 each for
contempt of court. The remission is effective 26th August, 2016.
“The
three were sentenced on 27th July, 2016 and have served part of the prison
sentences imposed on them. They have also paid the GHS 10,000.00 (ten thousand
cedis) fines. The decision of His Excellency the President to remit their
sentences on compassionate grounds follows a petition submitted to him by the
contemnors appealing to the president to exercise his prerogative of mercy even
as they continue to express deep remorse and regret for the unacceptable
statements they made against the judiciary.
“His Excellency President
Mahama takes this opportunity to remind all Ghanaians of the need to respect the
institutions of state and exercise freedom of speech responsibly mindful of the
need to preserve peace and national unity. The president reminds all concerned
especially persons working in the media or appearing on its platforms to be
circumspect and guard against the use of intemperate language which has the
potential of causing unnecessary tension especially in this election
year.
“The President is hopeful that all will draw lessons from the
events leading to the conviction of the three persons and bear in mind the
consequences of injudicious utterances.”
But the PNC flag bearer tweeted:
“I am very disappointed in the president's decision to endorse Montie FM insults
to our leaders, judges by releasing them.” |
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