Judges and magistrates across the country have been officially notified that attempted suicide is no longer considered a criminal offence, following a significant legislative shift. This change stems from amendments made by Parliament to the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) in June 2023, aimed at decriminalising attempted suicide. The reform reflects growing recognition of mental health concerns, ensuring that individuals who attempt to end their lives will not face prosecution or conviction.
The details of this change were formally communicated in a letter dated October 18, 2024, signed by Judicial Secretary, Justice Cyra Pamela Koranteng. The letter underscored the importance of the new directive, which was issued by the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkornoo, and addressed to all circuit court judges and magistrates nationwide.
Justice Koranteng emphasized that the amendment primarily involves changes to Section 57 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), as well as Section 95 of the Mental Health Act, 2012 (Act 846), through the introduction of Act 1092. These changes are part of ongoing efforts to align the country’s legal framework with contemporary understandings of mental health.
“The directive ensures that circuit court judges and magistrates are well-informed and are to take note for compliance,” the notice reiterated.
This development is seen as a significant step toward reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues and providing a more compassionate legal response to those facing mental health crises. It also reflects broader efforts in the country to reform laws that no longer align with modern societal values or the evolving understanding of human rights.
