In a fervent appeal to lawmakers, Amnesty International Ghana is calling on all Members of Parliament to back the motion on the Criminal and other Offences Amendment Bill and the Armed Forces Amendment Bill, seeking the abolition of the death penalty in the country.
Having championed this cause since 1985, Amnesty International Ghana vehemently contends that the death penalty is a violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life and protection from torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. These rights are enshrined in international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights.
The human rights organization commended the Speaker of the 8th Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, for facilitating a meaningful debate on this critical issue. Additionally, they recognized Francis-Xavier Sosu, the MP for Madina, for initiating and spearheading the process.
Amnesty International firmly stands against the death penalty in all cases, without exception, regardless of the accused person, the nature of the crime, guilt or innocence, or the method of execution.
Expressing hope for the abolition of the death penalty this year, Amnesty International called upon all stakeholders and supporters of the cause to extensively engage the media and raise awareness about the importance of eliminating this harsh punishment from the statute books.
The organization highlighted the support they have received from prominent figures, including President Akufo-Addo, former President Mahama, the Speaker of Parliament, religious bodies, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).
Amnesty International urged the public to join their campaign in advocating for the removal of the death penalty in Ghana.
As the debate on the abolition of the death penalty gains momentum, all eyes are on the Parliament, where the fate of this contentious issue will soon be decided. The potential enactment of these bills would mark a significant step towards upholding human rights and justice in the West African nation
