The Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has introduced a new bill in Parliament to amend the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), introducing community service and a Bond of Good Behavior as an alternative to the traditional custodial sentences and fines for petty crimes.
Mr. Sosu initiated the bill on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.
He stated that, Community service in the context of criminal justice refers to a form of alternative sentencing or punishment that involves individuals who have committed offences performing unpaid work or service for the benefit of the community.
It can take various forms, including cleaning up public spaces, participating in environmental projects, working in community centers, assisting with social services, or engaging in other activities that benefit the community.
The MP in a statement on the amendment of the Act said the community service or the Bond of Good Behavior would allow offenders to contribute their time and efforts to community-oriented projects or organizations to address the consequences of their actions, promote rehabilitation, and enhance community well-being in general.
Francis-Xavier Sosu explain that, the bill is intended to contribute to decongesting Ghana’s prisons.
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Story by Osei Akoto(Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoronline.com
