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The Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has proposed a groundbreaking bill to amend the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). The bill, introduced on December 20, 2023, advocates for the introduction of community service and a Bond of Good Behaviour as alternatives to traditional custodial sentences and fines for petty crimes.
Community service, as outlined in the bill, involves individuals who have committed offenses performing unpaid work or service for the benefit of the community. This alternative form of sentencing can include activities such as cleaning up public spaces, participating in environmental projects, and contributing to community well-being.
A Bond of Good Behaviour, another proposed alternative, refers to a court-ordered condition imposed on individuals involved in criminal activity. This condition is intended to ensure lawful and responsible behavior during a specified period, contributing to rehabilitation efforts.
MP Francis-Xavier Sosu believes that these alternatives would allow offenders to contribute positively to community-oriented projects or organizations, addressing the consequences of their actions and promoting rehabilitation.
The proposed amendments aim to provide an alternative to traditional forms of punishment, such as imprisonment or fines, allowing offenders to remain in the community while being held accountable. Sosu emphasizes that this approach could also help alleviate prison overcrowding issues, with Ghana’s prison population standing at 13,200 as of December 2023.
Furthermore, the bill aligns with the concept of restorative justice, where the community directly benefits from the involvement of offenders. Through unpaid services to the community, individuals have the opportunity to repair the harm caused, fostering a sense of responsibility and accountability.
