Mr Bowah, judges do not give interviews or explanations to the
press on why they sentence someone. That would be wrong because
judges have sworn to judge cases on the facts presented to them and
nothing else.
They may take into consideration society's distatse for certain
offences but they have to treat all offenders at the same starting
point. Only when the facts of the case, the accused's plea of
mitigation and the prosecution's request have all been presented
can the judge make his decision.And finally previous guidelines
issued by senior judges.
He takes NO instruction and musnt be influenced by any other
factors besides these. The correct procedure when either party
disagrees with a sentence passed by a Sub Court judge is to launch
an appeal to the High Court, who decision in the matter is
final.
Lay people like us may take certain views and want certain
punishments, but we are neither qualified nor in possession of the
facts to make that judgment.
Rather we should not direct our anger at judges who are
compelled by law to act in a certain manner (eg, the prosecution
lays a lower charge, the judge cannot impose a higher penalty). We
can criticise the AGC for preferring such charges or failing to
consider other factors.
To suggest a judge would show favour over a foreigner as opposed
to a Singaporean is a grave allegation, it is wrong and entirely
stupid.
We have too many experts here who just blabber and make wild
statements as if they know everything. (and I'm not referring to
you)
