Lawyer Calls for Shift in Approach to Penal Laws: Focus on Reform, Not Just Punishment
In a thought-provoking interview on Kessben Accra’s popular program, Maakye, with host Kojo Preko Dankwa, lawyer and lecturer Raymond Bidemah emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in how penal laws are viewed and applied. Bidemah, who teaches at KAAF University, argued that penal laws should not solely focus on punishment but also on justice and reform.
Rethinking the Purpose of Penal Laws
Lawyer Bidemah stressed that society should move away from seeing criminal laws merely as a means of inflicting pain on individuals. Instead, he emphasized that penal laws have a dual purpose: to deter people from committing certain acts and to reform offenders. He questioned the effectiveness of current penal systems, asking, “Have we asked ourselves why people still commit the same offenses after being released from prison?” This query highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing crime.
The Importance of Reform
Lawyer Bidemah’s comments come amid discussions on the Cybersecurity Bill, which aims to regulate and prevent cybercrime. As lawmakers consider this bill, Bidemah’s insights serve as a reminder that effective penal laws should prioritize both punishment and reform. By focusing on rehabilitation and addressing the root causes of crime, the legal system can work towards creating a safer and more just society.
A New Perspective on Penal Laws
By reframing penal laws to focus on reform and rehabilitation, we can work towards reducing recidivism rates and creating a more equitable society. As Bidemah noted, penal law is not just about punishment but about preventing and addressing public wrongs. By adopting a more holistic approach, we can build a justice system that truly serves the needs of individuals and society.
