The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill 2024 Introduced to Decriminalize Suicide
The WHO emphasizes that criminalizing suicide does not stop people from acting on suicidal thoughts but instead creates a barrier to seeking assistance.
[Seen by hubzmedia.africa] The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced in the National Assembly, seeks to decriminalize suicide attempts in Kenya by amending Section 266 of the Penal Code. Photo/Parliament of Kenya.
By Robert Assad
The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has been officially introduced to the National Assembly with the goal of decriminalizing suicide attempts in Kenya. The bill, sponsored by Hon. Anthony Oluoch, aims to amend Section 266 of the Penal Code, which currently treats attempted suicide as a criminal offence.
The proposed amendment will ensure that attempted suicide is seen as a mental health issue rather than a criminal act. This significant shift in perspective is intended to encourage those struggling with suicidal thoughts to seek the necessary help, without the fear of legal repercussions.
A Global Health Perspective
Reducing the global suicide rate by one-third by 2030 is a key target under both the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Mental Health Action Plan. Many countries have already committed to addressing mental health issues, with decriminalization of suicide being a crucial step in that direction.
A policy brief by the WHO highlights that suicide attempts remain illegal in at least 23 countries worldwide, which often prevents individuals from seeking help when they are most vulnerable. The WHO emphasizes that criminalizing suicide does not stop people from acting on suicidal thoughts but instead creates a barrier to seeking assistance.
Kenya’s Commitment to Mental Health
The introduction of the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill is part of Kenya’s effort to align with global mental health strategies. The government recognizes that mental health issues are critical public health concerns, and decriminalizing suicide will contribute to better mental health outcomes across the country. This shift also emphasizes the need for mental health interventions and support systems rather than punitive measures.
By amending the Penal Code, Kenya aims to foster a supportive environment where individuals experiencing mental health crises can reach out for help without fear of legal consequences. This approach acknowledges that suicide prevention requires compassionate, comprehensive support systems, and not criminal charges.
Key Statements and the Way Forward
Hon. Anthony Oluoch, the sponsor of the bill, noted that this change is not just about legal reform, but about redefining how society views mental health. “Decriminalizing suicide will encourage those in need to seek professional help,” said Oluoch. The bill also aligns with Kenya’s broader health objectives of reducing suicide rates and enhancing access to mental health care across the nation.
The bill is now under consideration, and if passed, it will mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to tackle mental health challenges. The government is expected to prioritize mental health reforms and ensure that resources are available for those affected.
Next Steps for the Bill
The bill will go through the usual legislative process in the National Assembly. If approved, it will be a key development in improving the mental health landscape in Kenya, making it one of the pioneering nations in Africa to decriminalize suicide attempts and focus on mental health interventions.
The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill represents a turning point in how Kenya responds to suicide and mental health crises, offering hope for those who have struggled in silence for too long.
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