Prophet Kofi Oduro and acclaimed satirist Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM) have jointly appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to consider granting clemency to William Ato Essien, the founder of the defunct Capital Bank. Their plea underscores the belief that Essien, whom Prophet Oduro described as “too intelligent,” should not remain incarcerated, particularly in light of his deteriorating health.
The appeal comes amidst growing concerns over Essien’s health. KSM, speaking on his program, highlighted that William Ato Essien has sustained a severe spinal injury during his imprisonment, rendering him reliant on a wheelchair. KSM explicitly stated that his appeal is driven by humanitarian considerations, characterizing Essien’s current state as “inhumane,” and is not influenced by any personal connections or biases.
William Ato Essien was sentenced to 15 years in prison on October 23, 2023. His conviction stemmed from the embezzlement of over GH¢90 million in liquidity support funds from the Bank of Ghana. While initially offered an opportunity to avoid jail time by repaying the stolen funds, Essien made an initial payment of GH¢30 million but subsequently failed to adhere to the agreed-upon repayment schedule and terms, leading to the enforcement of his prison sentence.
Both Prophet Oduro and KSM are urging President Mahama to weigh Essien’s grave medical condition and the specifics of his incarceration. They contend that clemency would represent a compassionate measure, given the severity of Essien’s health challenges and the broader context of his conviction.