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The special task force set-up to look at alternative sentencing for death row prisoners is expected to submit its report by January next year, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Liew Vui Keong.
Speaking to reporters after an International Human Rights Day commemoration event in Kuala Lumpur today, Liew said the study was required as the proposed abolishment of the mandatory death penalty would have serious implications on existing sentences.
"The alternative sentencing is for 1,281 death row inmates. What do we do with them if we propose this amendment?" he said.
"For example, murder. Let's say the judge decides not to pass the death sentence and gives a maximum 30 years (in prison). With that, it will also affect death row inmates because there are those who have been in for more than 30 years," Liew said.
He pointed out that the implications of introducing alternative sentences include the possible release of death row inmates.
"If for this most serious offence (murder), a judge has given 30 years... some of them who have been on the death row for longer, by right, they should be able to get out.
"They don't deserve to remain there because the sentencing policy has changed," he said.
Earlier, Liew said the special committee was scheduled to complete its study this month, but had requested for a slight delay to refine several matters.
Upon receiving the report, Liew said that he would bring the matter to the cabinet for further deliberation.
It was previously reported that the task force members comprised former Federal Court judges, former Attorney-General's Chambers officers, former senior officers of the Prisons Department as well as representatives from the Bar Council, Suhakam, academicians, criminologists and civil society organisations.
On July 4, Liew said the government was looking at replacing the mandatory death sentence for 11 serious criminal offences.
Under the proposed changes to the law, the death penalty will still be available as a sentencing option for the judge who could also choose between a 30-year jail sentence or life imprisonment. - Mkini
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