Renowned Ghanaian satirist and television host, Kwaku Sintim-Misa, popularly known as KSM,is calling on President John Dramani Mahama to consider granting clemency to imprisoned businessman, William Ato Essien, citing the latter’s deteriorating health.
During a recent episode of The KSM Show, the outspoken broadcaster disclosed that Essien, the former CEO of the defunct Capital Bank, is now wheelchair-bound following a spinal injury sustained while serving time.
“Mr. President, I beg you. Please, this man in my view has been wronged. He is languishing in jail. If you should go and visit Ato Essien right now, the man is in a wheelchair,” KSM said, visibly emotional.
Essien was convicted in 2023 for embezzling more than GH¢90 million in liquidity support from the Bank of Ghana. Although the court initially allowed him to avoid jail by refunding the money, he only managed to pay GH¢30 million, failing to settle the outstanding balance.
KSM emphasised that his appeal is not based on personal affiliation but rather a moral obligation to speak up for someone in distress.
“He had an accident while in jail, and I think he sustained a very severe spinal injury. So right now, the man is in extremely bad shape so many things,” he explained.
“I am using this platform to appeal to His Excellency. Please, you have the power of clemency. I am begging the President. I can use this platform for all Ghanaians to add their voices and plead that Ato Essien does not belong there.”
Source: Ghanaweekend
