Parliament has received the Community Service Bill, 2026. This bill aims to allow courts to sentence offenders to community service instead of jail time.
The laying of the bill in Parliament was announced by Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.
This move signifies the government's intent to reform the criminal justice system.
Non-custodial sentencing means people convicted of certain crimes can serve their sentences within the community.
Examples of community service could include cleaning public spaces or helping in local projects.
This approach is intended to reduce prison overcrowding and allow offenders to continue working and supporting their families.
The bill will now go through parliamentary processes for debate and potential approval.
If passed, it will provide judges with more options when sentencing individuals.