Subversion Decree

1972, Ghana

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July 14, 2026

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In July 1972, Ghana enacted a retroactive Subversion Decree. This decree empowered military courts to impose the death penalty for offenses including subversive political activity, robbery, theft, and damaging public property. By 1973, its scope expanded to include spreading rumors and profiteering. This measure was part of a military regime's efforts to maintain order amidst economic decline, but it ultimately failed to stabilize the nation's economy or living standards.12

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In July 1972 a retroactive Subversion Decree was enacted under which military courts were empowered to impose the death penalty for offenses such as subversive political activity, robbery, theft, and damaging public property, and, from 1973, for the spreading of rumors and profiteering. The military regime was clearly failing to…
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In July 1972 a retroactive Subversion Decree was enacted under which military courts were empowered to impose the death penalty for offenses such as subversive political activity, robbery, theft, and damaging public property, and, from 1973, for the spreading of rumors and profiteering. The military regime was clearly failing to…
Read More