The Centre for Victims of Injustice (CenVI, GH) has lauded the Members of Ghana’s Parliament for the monumental step they took to repeal the death penalty.
The move, the Centre said, demonstrates the nation’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of human life and prioritizing rehabilitation within the justice system.
In a landmark decision that signifies a progressive step towards societal justice, Parliament passed the Criminal Amendment Bill to repeal the death penalty and replace it with life imprisonment.
The amendment targeted Section of the Criminal and Other Offences Act 1960, Act 29, and the Armed Forces Act 1962, Act 105.
Founder and Executive Director of CenVI, GH, Felix Engsalige Nyaaba, in a statement, stated this momentous decision showcases a progressive approach towards justice.
He said, “This marks a significant step forward in aligning the legal system with evolving societal values.”
“We would like to extend our heartfelt commendation to the esteemed members of the Ghana Parliament for passing the law to amend the Criminal Code 1960, specifically pertaining to the death penalty.
The legislative amendment comes as a reflection of Ghana’s dedication to human rights and a growing global consensus on the drawbacks and potential injustices associated with capital punishment.
Many countries worldwide have either abolished or restricted the use of the death penalty, recognizing its irrevocability and the risk of wrongful convictions.
“We commend the Parliament of Ghana, especially the Speaker, Rt Hon Alban Bagbin, the MP for Madina, Hon Francis Xavier Sosu, and the entire parliamentarians for acknowledging the need for reform, engaging in open discussions, and listening to different perspectives before reaching this landmark decision,” Nyaaba added.
“This demonstrates the depth and maturity of Ghana’s democratic processes and a commitment to ensuring that laws meet the needs and reflect the aspirations of the citizens.”
The decision to repeal the death penalty and replace it with life imprisonment aligns Ghana with a growing global consensus on the need to embrace a justice system focused on compassion, fairness, and rehabilitation.
The move sends a strong message of Ghana’s commitment to international human rights standards and a dedication to evolving its legal system to reflect contemporary values and standards.
The passing of this bill serves as an inspiration to other nations and reinforces Ghana’s position as a leader in the promotion of justice and human rights in the region.
About CenVI, GH
Centre for Victims of Injustice, Ghana (CenVI, GH) is an independent, non-governmental, non-political, and non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and advancement of human rights and the promotion of justice as a democratic culture in Ghana.