Court grants GH₵10 million bail to Ato Essien over health issues

The Court of Appeal has granted GH₵10 million bail, with two sureties, to William Ato Essien, the former Managing Director and founder of the defunct Capital Bank, as he appeals his 15-year prison sentence for causing financial loss to the state.

Essien was convicted in October 2023 after he failed to meet the terms of a restitution agreement. The agreement was meant to repay GH₵90 million in liquidity support from the Bank of Ghana that was allegedly misappropriated. His default led to the imposition of a custodial sentence.

Tuesday’s ruling follows growing public calls for clemency, including an online petition to the President, citing the former banker’s deteriorating health.

Among those advocating for mercy is Dr. John Apea, Head of Missions at the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council and Board Member of the Commonwealth Human Rights Office for Africa. Speaking during a discussion on X Spaces on July 27, Dr. Apea revealed that Essien is now wheelchair-bound due to a spinal injury sustained in prison.

He described Essien’s condition as dire, stressing that he is not receiving the necessary medical care while in custody.

“As it stands now, Ato is not getting the medical attention he needs in prison. That’s why I’m calling for clemency. We can leave the legal process to the courts and lawyers, but right now, the real issue is humanitarian. This is someone’s father, brother, and son who cannot care for himself behind bars,” Dr. Apea said.

He questioned whether continued imprisonment under such conditions amounts to justice or a silent death sentence.

“We don’t have the death penalty for financial crimes in Ghana, but are we silently executing people who are gravely ill? Is this rehabilitation or something far worse?” he asked.

Dr. Apea also drew attention to perceived inconsistencies in the treatment of high-profile individuals convicted of financial crimes, calling for fairness and compassion within the justice system.