Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Malawi Voice
Published on 2024-03-17 07:49:16
By Rennie Tembo
Irish Rule of Law International (IRLI) has called upon the police to provide children in conflict with the law with an opportunity for transformation. This plea was made during a two-day orientation workshop in Lilongwe, where IRLI’s Program Lawyer, Martha Pigott, emphasized the importance of treating young offenders in accordance with the law.
Pigott expressed concern over the prevailing tendency to treat young offenders as adults, which goes against the principles of legislation designed to protect juvenile offenders. She urged law enforcement officers to adopt a mindset that prioritizes the rehabilitation of children in conflict with the law through counseling and other legally-based alternatives.
The workshop aimed to equip police officers with the knowledge and tools necessary to handle cases involving young offenders with professionalism and sensitivity. By promoting a better understanding of their roles and responsibilities, the workshop sought to reduce the number of youth offenders who end up unnecessarily congesting prisons.
Assistant Commissioner Billy Chimbonga, the Officer-in-Charge for Lingadzi Police Station, welcomed the orientation as a timely and invaluable opportunity for officers to enhance their skills in managing cases involving children. He emphasized the importance of community policing coordinators in disseminating the message of child diversion and ensuring that all officers are aware of the proper procedures for handling juvenile offenders.
Chimbonga highlighted the need for a collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies, community members, and other stakeholders to ensure that children in conflict with the law are given the support and guidance they need to reform their behavior and reintegrate into society. By prioritizing the well-being and rehabilitation of young offenders, the police can contribute to a safer and more inclusive community for all.
The orientation workshop served as a platform for dialogue and learning, enabling participants to exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop a collective understanding of how to effectively address the unique challenges posed by youth crime. Through continued education and training initiatives, law enforcement officers can play a critical role in promoting justice, fairness, and compassion in their interactions with children in conflict with the law.
In conclusion, the workshop organized by IRLI underscores the importance of upholding the rights and well-being of children in conflict with the law. By fostering a culture of understanding, empathy, and support, the police can help young offenders navigate the legal system and access the resources they need to turn their lives around. Through collaboration and a commitment to best practices, law enforcement agencies can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable youth and contribute to a more just and equitable society.
Read the original article on Malawi Voice
