The Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has presented a bill in Parliament aimed at amending the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). The proposed amendment seeks to revolutionize the approach to sentencing for certain offenses by introducing alternatives to traditional custodial sentences and fines.
Under the proposed amendment, individuals convicted of petty crimes could be sentenced to community service or a Bond of Good Behaviour, instead of being sent to prison or paying a fine. Community service involves individuals who have committed offenses performing unpaid work or service for the benefit of the community. This could include activities such as cleaning public spaces, participating in environmental projects, or contributing to social services.
The Bond of Good Behaviour, on the other hand, is intended as a court-ordered condition imposed on individuals involved in criminal activity. This condition would require them to demonstrate lawful and responsible behavior over a specified period.
Francis-Xavier Sosu, in a statement regarding the proposed amendment, highlighted the significance of these alternatives in fostering rehabilitation and enhancing community well-being. He stressed that by introducing community service and the Bond of Good Behaviour, offenders would have the opportunity to contribute to community-oriented projects and address the consequences of their actions.
The MP also drew attention to the issue of prison overcrowding in Ghana, with the current population of 13,200 surpassing the authorized capacity of 9,945. Introducing community service, according to Sosu, would not only help alleviate this issue but also offer a more constructive approach to holding offenders accountable.
Moreover, Sosu advocated for restorative justice, where the community benefits directly from offenders. He stated that by providing unpaid services to the community, offenders have the chance to repair the harm they caused, promoting a sense of responsibility and accountability.
If the bill is passed, Ghana could see a significant shift in the sentencing approach for certain offenses, with a greater emphasis on rehabilitation and community involvement. This change would not only address issues of prison overcrowding but also provide offenders with opportunities for personal growth and community reintegration.
Source: Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
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