Minimum and Maximum Sentences to be Legislated for Some Serious Crimes

The nation’s legislature is to debate legislation establishing minimum and maximum sentences for serious gun crimes and sexual offences committed against minors.

Cabinet made the decision at its meeting on Wednesday, following extensive discussions on the recent uptick in firearm-related crimes.

The executive arm of government says it will elicit the views of relevant stakeholders through a series of consultations, before the legislation is finalized and presented to Parliament.

The government emphasizes that the proposed legislative process will be undertaken within the principle of separation of powers, which is the constitutional framework governing the respective responsibilities of the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the State.