Ghana has decriminalized attempted suicide following the passage of the Criminal Offences Amendment Act, 2023 (Act 1092).
The announcement, issued by the Office of the Judicial Secretary under the directive of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, informed all Circuit Court Judges and Magistrates nationwide of the legal change, marking a significant step in mental health reform.
The Honourable Lady Chief Justice has praised the judiciary for its commitment to upholding this new legal framework.
The directive, signed by Justice Cyra Pamela G.A. Koranteng, Judicial Secretary, informs judges and magistrates that amendments to Section 57 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), and Section 95 of the Mental Health Act, 2012 (Act 846) ensure that individuals who attempt suicide will no longer face prosecution or conviction.
This change represents a significant shift from Ghana’s previous legal stance, which criminalized suicide attempts.
The notification emphasizes that this legislative reform aims to address suicide attempts from a health and support perspective, aligning with global trends in mental health advocacy.
Under the new framework, individuals who attempt suicide will be recognized as needing medical and psychological support rather than legal punishment.
Circuit Court Judges and Magistrates are required to implement this directive immediately, reflecting a new approach to mental health issues within Ghana’s legal system.
This reform is expected to be welcomed by mental health advocates and human rights organizations, which have long called for changes to Ghana’s mental health laws, arguing that the criminalization of attempted suicide often discourages individuals from seeking help.
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