Judges and magistrates across the country have received official notification that attempted suicide is no longer considered a criminal offense. This significant change follows an amendment made by Parliament in June 2023 to the Criminal Offences Act of 1960, effectively decriminalizing the act of attempting suicide.
According to a letter dated October 18, 2024, signed by the Judicial Secretary, Justice Cyra Pamela Koranteng, individuals who attempt suicide will no longer face prosecution or conviction. This directive, issued by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, is aimed at all circuit court judges and magistrates.
The notice highlights the amendment of Section 57 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), as well as Section 95 of the Mental Health Act, 2012 (Act 546), through Act 1092.
“Circuit Court judges and magistrates are to take note for compliance,” the letter stated, emphasizing the importance of adhering to this new legal framework.
