President John Dramani Mahama has in consultation with the Council of State remitted the sentences of the Montie FM presenter and panelists who were jailed four months by the Supreme Court for contempt.
“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 remaining prison sentence imposed on three persons: Salifu Maase (alias Mugabe), Alistair Nelson and Ako Gunn who were sentenced to 4 months imprisonment and a fine of GHȻ10,000.00 each for contempt of court. The remission is effective 26th August 2016,†a statement issued by the communications ministry said.
Here are six facts about the Council of State that should interest you.
1. The Council of State in Ghana is a small body of prominent citizens, analogous to the Council of Elders in the traditional political system, which advises the President on national issues.
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2. It was established by Articles 89 to 92 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana: "There shall be a Council of State to counsel the President in the performance of his functions."
3. The Council of State includes a former chief justice of Ghana, a former chief of defence Staff and a former inspector general of Police and the President of the National House of Chiefs.
4. Each region of Ghana has an elected representative on the council.
5. The President of Ghana also elects eleven members.
6. Members of the council stay in office until the term of office of the president ends.
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