Attempted suicide no more an offence – Chief Justice to Judges

The Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo has notified Judges and Magistrates to desist from criminalizing attempted suicide.

In a statement released and signed by the Judicial Secretary, Justice Pamela C.A Koranteng, it notified Justice that due to the amendment of Section 57 of the Criminal Offenses Act 1960 and Section 95 of the Mental Health Act 2012, anyone who attempts suicide is no longer for prosecution or conviction.

The statement read:

“I have been directed by the Honourable Lady Chief Justice to notify all Circuit Court Judges and Magistrates that attempted suicide has been decriminalized by the Criminal Offenses Amendment Act, 2023 (Act 1092).

She has further directed me to inform you that, with the amendment of Section 57 of the Criminal Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29), and Section 95 of the Mental Health Act, 2012 (Act 846) by Act 1092, persons who attempt suicide are no longer liable for prosecution and or conviction.

Circuit Court Judges and Magistrates are to take note of compliance. Please accept the compliments of the Honourable Lady Chief Justice.”

In 2023, Ghana’s Parliament approved amendments to the Criminal Offenses Act of 1960, which previously made attempted suicide a criminal offence.

Due to the recent changes, individuals who attempt to take their own life will now be regarded as needing mental health support rather than facing imprisonment under the law.

Health experts in Ghana have been pushing for this amendment, citing the need for medical assistance for those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts.