In a pivotal moment for Ghana, six individuals, including three soldiers, have been sentenced to death by hanging for their involvement in a coup plot three years ago. This marks the first treason trial in the country since the overthrow of post-independence leader Kwame Nkrumah in 1966.
The accused were apprehended in 2021 while testing weapons in the capital, Accra, allegedly with the intention of toppling the government. The trial, which gripped the nation’s attention, saw the group, including a gunsmith, pleading not guilty. Defense lawyers have announced their intent to appeal the ruling in the Supreme Court.
During the sentencing at the High Court in Accra, heavy security was deployed. The court found the six guilty of high treason and conspiracy to commit high treason, citing compelling evidence, including intercepted communications and testimonies.
The individuals were arrested with locally manufactured guns, improvised explosive devices, and AK-47 rifles, according to court documents. State prosecutors argued that the group had planned to organize protests, ostensibly aiming to overthrow President Nana Akufo-Addo’s government ahead of the 2020 general elections.
Three other individuals, including a senior police officer and two military officers, were acquitted. The court emphasized the seriousness of the offense, aligning it with the constitutional principles that frown upon attempts to overthrow a government.
Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame, who led the prosecution, praised the court’s verdict as “significant.” He underscored that Ghana’s constitution considers the act of treason as punishable by death, emphasizing the stability it has provided to the nation.
It’s noteworthy that Ghana last carried out an execution in 1992 when it transitioned back to democratic rule. In a progressive move, lawmakers voted last year to abolish the death penalty for ordinary crimes, replacing it with a life sentence. This decision reflects evolving perspectives on capital punishment within the country.
