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\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 Madraiwiwi, J
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 12 May 2000
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 HAA0027}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3887370 /}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 2000}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013 "Escapin}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 g}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013  from lawful custody}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 "}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013  }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 -}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013  }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 
appellant punished for breach of each section - whether double jeopardy - reduction of food rations as punishment under Prisons }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid860297 Act }{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 - whether degrading}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013  }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 and inhumane t}
{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013 reatment -}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11159153  }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013 Penal Code (Cap 17) s138;}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013  Prisons Regulations paragraph 123(3); Prisons Act s}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid860297 83(1)A(i), (vi) - Constitution }{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 s25(1), 28(1)(k)
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 The Appellant (a prisoner) appeals against a s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7606131 ix-month imprisonment sentence}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  imposed by the Magistrate's Court upon a conviction for escaping from lawful custody contrary to section 138 of the Penal Code. The 
Commissioner of Prisons had also imposed relevant punishments under the Prisons Act for the same act which is also a breach of paragraph 123(3) of the Prisons Regulations. The punishments meted out by the Commissioner were a reduction of his eight month r
emission entitlement for the original sentence of two years by }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 one month and seven days and gi}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
ving him reduced rations for two weeks. In addition the 66 days}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7606131  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
he was at large were added to his sentence. The Appellant appealed on the grounds that he was punished twice for the same offence. Apart from an analysis of the principle of double jeopardy, the High Court also looked at the compatibility}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 of section 83(1)A(vi) of the Prisons Act - which provides for the relevant punishments imposed on the Appellant by the}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13070204  Commissioner}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12524311  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13070204 - with section 25(1}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 ) of the Constitution which provides against cruel, inhumane and degrading punishment.
\par 
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\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7568768 - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12524311 (1) The Appellant had been}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
 punished twice for the same offence even though the offence was constituted under two different Acts. The offences are identical although frame}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 d under different legislations.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7108465 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4477520 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 (2) Section 83(1)A(vi) of the Prisons Act contravenes section 25(1) of the Cons
titution as amounting to degrading and inhumane treatment and is therefore null and void.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7108465 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4477520 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
(3) Paragraph 114 of the Prisons Regulations does not allow the Commissioner to add the period of time a prisoner is at}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013  large to the original sentence.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
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The six month consecutive sentence imposed by the Court remains. The punishments meted out by the Commissioner of Prisons are set aside. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 Rations are to be restored. Th}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 e remission period of one month seven days is to be restored.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 Cases referred to in judgment
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid7692352 appl }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid860297 Minister of Home Affairs v Fisher}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid12524311  [1989] AC 319
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid7692352 fo}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid7692352 ll }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid860297 
Sakal Papers Ltd v Union of India & }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid860297 O}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid860297 rs}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid12524311  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7692352 AI}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid7108465 R}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid12524311  1962 SC 305
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid7692352 appl }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid860297 Minister of State for Immigration and Ethnic}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid860297  }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid860297 Affairs v Teoh}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid12524311  (1995) 128 ALR 353

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid1076231 Appellant in Person
\par Aiyaz Sayad Khai}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid1076231 yum}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid1076231  for respondent
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 12 May 2000.
\par 
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid15826013 Madraiwiwi, J}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 Taito Rarasea the appellant appeals against a sentence of six months imprisonment imposed on 20 April 1999 by}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7108465 
 the learned Chief Magistrate fo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 r t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 he offence of escaping from law}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 ful}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013  custody contrary to section 138}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
 of the Penal Code Cap. 17 as well as the sanctions imposed by the Commissioner of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9767101 Prisons pursuant to sections 83}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
(1)A(i) and (vi) of the Prisons Act Cap. 86 (the 'Act') as the appellant had also breached paragraph 123(3) of the Prisons Regulations, (the 'Regulations')}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12524311 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  This consisted of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
reducing his eight month remission entitlement for the original sentence of two years by one month and seven days and giving him reduced rations for two weeks. In addition the sixty-six (66) 
days he was at large were added to his sentence under paragraph 114 of the Regulations.
\par 
\par In relation to the six month consecutive sentence imposed, escaping from lawful custody is a serious offence and carries a maximum two year term. The courts appear to treat the matter with some gravity because the offender seeks}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 to evade the consequences of his/her conduct. The sentence imposed was appropriate bearing in mind that the appellant has }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 committed this offence before. He}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  had li}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3022244 ttle choice but to plead guilty.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  This aspect of the sentence will not be disturbed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 The only ground of appeal which has merit is t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013 he one in which the appellant}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  alleges he has been punished twice for the same offence (i.e. double jeopardy).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9767101  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 In the course of the hearing, the appellant con
ceded that the approach taken by the Commissioner of Prisons (the 'Commissioner') in relation to this issue was correct. That position is set out elsewhere in this decision. However, the court will disregard the appellant's concession because he is not in
 a position, for good reason, to appreciate the constitutional issues which involve sections 25 and 28 of the constitution. These matters require some attention in the interests of justice.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3022244 As regards section 83(1)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 A(vi) of the Act, the court has to conside
r whether it is consistent with section 25(1) of the Constitution which provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15826013 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15937930 25}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3022244 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  - (1) Every person has the right to freedom from torture of any kind, whether physical,
 mental or emotional, and from cruel, inhumane, degrading or disproportionately severe treatment or punishment."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
\par It is now settled law that a constitution is an instrument }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid16340473 sui generis}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
 requiring special rules of interpretation }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid15826013 Minister of Home Affairs v Fisher}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013  [}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12524311 1989] AC 319.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  These rules require a broad and purposive approach as was recognised by}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15826013  Mudholke}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981 r J in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981\charrsid2887148 Sakal Papers (P) Ltd v U}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid2887148 nion of}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981\charrsid2887148  India & O}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid2887148 rs}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1184819\charrsid2887148  A}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7692352 I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid2887148 R 1962 SC}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981\charrsid2887148  305 at 311}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8612981 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
"It must be borne in mind that the Constitution must be interpreted in a broad way and not in a narrow and pedantic sense. Certain rights have been enshrined in our constitution as fundamental and, therefore, while considering the nature and content of th
ose rights the court must not be too}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981  astute to interpret the languag}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 e of the constitution is so literal a}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981  sense as to whittle them down}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16340473 . O}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 n the oth}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981 er hand the court must interpret the constitu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 tion}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 in a manner which would enable the citizen to enjoy the rights guaranteed by it is the fullest measure subject, of course to permissible restrictions."}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 This perspective is reflected in section 3 of the Constitution. The preamble itself reaffirms recognition of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all indiv
iduals and groups as well as respect for human dignity. The compact set out }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981 in sections 6 and 7 recognises }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid860297 i}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981\charrsid8612981 n}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid8612981 ter alia}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
 the equal rights of all citizens.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8612981\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 Therefore any consideration of section 25 must be approached with the understanding that any treatment 
or punishment that impinges upon the inherent dignity of the individual will contravene the provision.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid13440297 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 Article 10 clause }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 
 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297  Rights reinforces section 25(1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 ) in these terms:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid13440297 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 "All per}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 sons deprived of their}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2887148  liberty shall be treated with}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297  respect for the inherent dignity of the human person."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 
\par Section 43(2) of the Constitution allows recourse to be had to international instrument}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2887148 s in the interpretation of the B}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 
ill of Rights set out ther}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2887148 ein. Reading article 10 clause 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297  with section 25(1) the court is respectfully of opinion that the}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 
former reinforces the obligation to ensure that persons in custody are treated humanely and with dignity. This is supported by reference to the preamble, the 
compact and section 3 of the Constitution. The obligation includes the duty to provide sanctions for prison infractions that have due regard for the dignity of a person. F}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2887148 urthermore, article 1}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 1 clause l of the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  International Covenant on Economic, Social and
 Cultural Rights which has been ratified by the Republic of the Fiji Islands recognises the right of everyone to adequate food. Where a country has ratified an international convention, it is an indication that it will not take any action inconsistent wit
h its commit}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid661742 ments. As was stated by Mason C}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 J and Deane J in }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid13440297 Minister of State for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs v Teoh}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  (1995) 128 ALR 353 at 357:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
"Rather, ratification of a convention is a positive statement by the executive government of this country to the world and to the Australian people that the executive government and its agencies will act in accordance with the Convention."}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 Those dicta are equally relevant to the present case. Any reduction in rations as was meted out to the appellant was not con
sonant with the Republic of the Fiji Islands undertaking to provide its people with adequate food. Although a state}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
party's obligations under the said covenant are not mandatory, the action taken by the Commissioner was, in the court's respectful opinion, contrary to the spirit of the international instrument mentioned in the use of food as a means of control.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 Although article 32(1) of the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners Issued by the United Nation}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 
s Commission for Human Rights (}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 the 'Minimum Rules') envisages the reduction of diet under medical supervision as}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 an acceptable sanction, the spirit of our Constitution inclines the court to respectfully determine otherwise. It is difficult to reconcile the reduction of prison rations with the
 respect for human dignity that the preamble to the Constitution proclaims. It must also be bo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3022244 rn}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
e in mind that the Minimum Rules were first approved in 1957 and }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 clause}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857  3 of its Preliminary Observation recognise}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid860297 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  "the rules cover a field in which thought is constantly developing." The concept of human rights has evolved}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 since then and from the vantage point of the Constitution, which came into effect in 1997, has also deepened in its scope.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 Food is a basic necessity for daily sustenance. To reduce prison ra
tions as a form of punishment is a concept that is offensive in principle. Not only may it affect a person's capacity to survive but it deprives him/her of a portion of ra}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 
tions that are at best adequate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  The amount of reduction is not of any importance. Th
e very idea that the state would employ such means is intrinsically unacceptable for the reason that it uses what is a necessity of life as a means to punish proscribed behaviour. This devalues persons such as the appellant because it assumes their status
 
as prisoners justifies such sanctions. The short answer to that proposition is that they are no less human for being incarcerated with an entitlement to an inherent dignity no bars or walls can violate. The rationale for such treatment harks back to a tim
e when prisoners were not considered deserving of much consideration as human beings. The court is respectfully of opinion t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 hat section 83(1)}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 (vi) of the Act contravenes section 25(1) of the Constitution as amounting to degrading an}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 d inhumane treatment and is null}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  and void.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 Section 28(1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 )(k) of the Constitution and its effect on paragraph 123(3) of the Regulations and sections }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 83(1)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 A(i) and (vi) of the Act now have to be considered.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 Paragraph 123 of the Regulations states:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
"Any prisoner who commits any of the following offences shall be guilty of a prison offence for the purposes of section 82 of the Act:-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3941477 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
escapes, conspires with a person to procure the escape of a prisoner or assists another prisoner to escape from the prison in which he is detained or from any other lawful custody."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8658088 Sections 83}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 (1)(A)(i) and (vi) of the Act provide:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 "83(}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5143385 i}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 ) For the purpose of the trial of prison offences under the provisions of this Act, there shall be the following tribunals:-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3941477 C}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 . The Con
troller, who shall have power to impose any of the following punishments or any combination thereof:-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 i. forfeiture of remission of sentence not exceeding three months; ...}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 vi. reduced diet for any perio}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 
d not exceeding fourteen day}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5667562  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 \'85.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 The Commissioner purported to punish the appellant under those provisions. In his memorandum r}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5143385 eferenced P31}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 /6/3 of 4 May 2000 to the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Commissioner concluded that:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 "The prisoner was not punished twice for the same offence as alleged. He 
was punished for committing the offence under Prison Regulations and Penal Code which h}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3941477 ave different interpretations u}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
nder the law."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 In the court's respectful opinion the second sentence appears to contradict the first sentence in the passage cited. For i
f the appellant was punished under both the Regulations and the Penal Code is that not by definition the very thing he complains of?
\par 
\par Section 28(1)(k) of the Constitution is in these terms:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid13440297 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5667562 "28 - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 (1}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 ) Every person charged with an offence has the right:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid7568768 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
(k) not to be tried again for an offence of which he or she has previously been convicted or acquitted;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5667562  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 ...."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
\par The appellant was convicted of the offence of es}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 caping from lawful custody on 20}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
 April 1999 and sentenced accordingly. Subsequently it was determined he had also contravened paragraph 123(3) of the Regulations. Under section 83(1) of the Act, the Commissioner then "tried" the appellant and imposed the pen}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 alties set out in subsections (1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 )A(i) and (vi) thereof. In the court's respectful opinion that wa}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297 s a clear breach of section 28(1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
)(k) of the Constitution as the appellant had already been sentenced to six months imprisonment by the court at first instance. The contention that the Penal
 Code and Regulations were separate instruments with their respective penalties has no merit. Both punished the same conduct i.e. escaping from lawful custody. It follows that}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13440297  sections 83(1}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 )A(i) and (vi) where they are additional to any sentenc}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718 e imposed by a court are }{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid9264718 ultra v}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid9264718 ires}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
 that provision and the Commissioner may not apply them in such circumstances as the present case. Paragraph 123 of the Regulations itself is valid and may co-exist with section 138 of the Penal Code although the latter would take p
recedence being a statutory provision.
\par 
\par However, the appellant can only be punished for breach of one of them because they are identical offences although framed under different legislations. As an aside, the court has assumed for present purposes that the
 Commissioner conducted a formal hearing before imposing the said sanctions. The phrase "trial of prison offences" obliges him to do so. If that was not done, the appellant could have impugned the penalties imposed on that basis as well.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 As regards the si
xty-six days the Commissioner saw fit to add to the appellant's consecutive sentence being time he was at liberty, paragraph 114 of the Regulations was cited as the basis for the decision. It states:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9264718 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 "114. The period during which an escaped prisoner is at
 large shall not be counted as part of the sentence he was undergoing at the time of his escape."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 In the memorandum referred to earlier, the Commissioner explained his position thus:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9264718 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 "The 66 days is the period he was at large when he escaped on 25/}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 /99. This was automatically added to his sentence in accordance with Regulation 114 of Cap 86."}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10890857 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 With respect, the provision states the direct reverse of what the Commissioner asserts. It cannot be prayed in aid to justify the decision taken because it specific
ally prohibits that being done. Moreover section 83 of the Act which details the penalties}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
that may be imposed for prison offences is silent on the issue. That would be the logical place for such punishment. However, there is no reference to time a prisone
r spends at large being added to his/her sentence. The Commissioner cannot impose such a measure unless it is authorised by law. Even were paragraph 114 to authorise the prison authorities to so act, it would fall foul of the double jeopardy rule enshrine
d in section 28(1)(k) of the Constitution. The very thought of the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
Commissioner having such powers is breathtaking in its implications. It is tantamount to saying that an administrative official has the authority to incarcerate persons albeit prisoners without a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718 
ny reference to judicial bodies.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
 The separation of powers doctrine as reflected in the Constitution reposes this power in the courts after due process of law for good reason. It is the clearest example of a restriction on an individual's liberty. In t
he court's respectful opinion, neither the Commissioner nor his officers have any legal or constitutional basis to impose the additional custodial sentence for those reason}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718 s}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 The six month consecutive sentence will stand but the appeal is allowed to the extent that the punishments meted out by the Commissioner of Prisons will be set aside. The reduction}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718  of remission (section 83(1)A(i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 )}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718 )}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857  of the Act) and}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 rations (section 83(}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7692352 )a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 
(vi) of the Act) breached section 28(1)(k) of the Constitution as the appellant had
 already been visited with a six month consecutive sentence for escaping from lawful custody. Furthermore section 83(1)A(vi) contravened section 25(1) of the Constitution and is null and void, the reduction of ration}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718 s amounting to inhumane and deg}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid10890857 rading tr
eatment. The remission period of one month seven days which was deducted will be restored accordingly.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid10890857 
\par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9336148 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid9264718 Appeal allowed to the extent that punishments}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9264718\charrsid9264718  meted out by Commissioner of Prisons i}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid9264718 s set aside.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4277475 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2229875 
\par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9336148 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10890857\charrsid5667562 Mereseini R Vuniwaqa
\par }}