The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) says the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law is a step in the right direction and urged the media to institute internal mechanisms for the prevention of irresponsible and defamatory publication.
This was contained in a resolution adopted at this year's annual general conference of the bar and read by the newly elected president, Mr. Paul A. Adu-Gyamfi at a press conference in Accra yesterday.
The former president, Mr. Ebo Quashie inducted the new executive into office and transferred the gavel, which is the symbol of authority to the new president.
The resolution also urged Parliament to enact a Freedom of Information Act using the recommendations contained in the report of the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA). The GBA condemned what it termed the "inappropriation and unacceptable language used by the acting Chief Justice" in his speech at the Annual Conference in Sunyani.
The association also recommended stiffer punishment for convicts of crimes such as rape and defilement of infants in order to stop the widespread of incidences of rape and defilement.
"Churches, Mosques and other religious bodies must take seriously their responsibilities in inculcating in their members and society as a whole the moral and cultural self-discipline which is essential for the nation development and progress."
In order to stem the tides of lynching and instant justice, the resolution suggested that steps be taken to ensure the speedy and fair trial of armed robbery suspects so as to build and enhance confidence in the criminal justice system.
The association further called on the Economic Commission of West African States (ECOWAS) to take measures to curb violence and civil strife in the sub-region and to also curb the trade in small arms. The statement further condemned the shameful and barbaric practice of child slavery in the sub-region and called on governments to take firm steps to combat the practice.
The GBA condemned the recent terrorists attacks on the US and said it supported any action towards apprehending and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
