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(HC)}{\fs16\insrsid10500829\charrsid933470 \tab } {\field{\*\fldinst {\cs17\fs16\insrsid10500829\charrsid933470 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\cs17\fs16\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid5204689 21}}}{\cs17\fs16\insrsid10500829\charrsid933470 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tx4185\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4139962 {\insrsid10500829 \tab \par }}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}} {\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8 \pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart State_v_Audie_pickering}STATE v AUDIE PICKERING \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend State_v_Audie_pickering} \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 High Court Criminal Appellate Jurisdiction \par 18, 30 July, 2001 \tab \tab \tab \tab \tab \tab HAM007/01S \par \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Dangerous Drugs Act \endash Interpretation - Questions posed for Case Stated \endash whether sentence imposed by Dangerous Drugs Amendment Decree ultra vire the 1997 Constitution because it removes judicial discretion in sentencing young first offenders \endash disproportionality - 1997 Constitution ss2(1) & (2), 3(b); 8, 25(1), 41(3), 43(3), 195(2)(e), 195(3); 1990 Constitution s 8(1); Dangerous Drugs Act s8(b), 41(2)}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 & Third Schedule;}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) Decree 4/90 s3; Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Decree 1/91; Universal Declaration of Human Rights art 5; Juveniles Act}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 ss30, 31; Penal Code s149; International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights art 7; Human Rights Commission Act s37(4) \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Court commented on the way all laws passed before the passing of the Constitution must measure up to the requirements of the Constitution, failing which they will be declared invalid to the extent of the inconsistency.}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Court noted that there are some rights which were so fundamental, that even the legislature could not legislate them away, and which are expressly recognised in the 1997 Constitution. \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Held \endash }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the context of section 25(1) of the Constitution, it is not enough to show that a sentencing law is unfair. The punishment of a mandatory minimum sentence must be shown to be cruel, inhuman, degrading, or disproportionately severe for the offence. \par (2) A sentence of minimum of 3 months imprisonment for possession of less than 10 grams of Indian Hemp prescribed by the Dangerous Drugs Decree No. 4/90 and Decree 1/91 may not be automatically }{ \i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 ultra vires}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 this provision but is subject to a test of disproportionality. A mandatory sentence for a first offender, who is clearly suited for rehabilitation is so grossly disproportionate to his offence that it is a clear breach of s25(1) of the Constitution. \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\dbch\af12\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af12\loch\f0 [Note: this case is commented on in (2005) 1 PHRLD \hich\af0\dbch\af12\loch\f0 58\hich\af0\dbch\af12\loch\f0 ]}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Cases referred to in Judgment \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Buzani Dodo v The State}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Constitutional Court of South Africa CCT 1/01 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Ex parte Attorney-General of Namibia, In re Corporal Punishment by Organs of State}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1992) LRC (Const) 515 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Frazer v State Services Commission}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1984) 1 NZLR 116 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Gerea & Others v DPP}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1984) SILR 161 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Hinds v The Queen}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1977) AC 195 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Kable v DPP }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (NSW) (1996) 70 ALJR 814 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Latimer v The Queen}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (2001) SCR 3 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Namunjepo & OS}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1999) SACLR 35 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Palling v Corfield}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1970) 123 CLR 52 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 R v Big M. Drug Mat Ltd.}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1985) 1 SCR 295 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 R v Goltz}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1991) 3 SCR 485 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Re B.C. Motor Vehicle Act}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1985) 2 SCR 486 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 S v Likuwa}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1999) SACLR 16 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 S v Swartz and Another}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1999) SACR 380 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 S v Vries}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1996) 12 BCLR 1666, 1996 SACLR Lexis 47 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Smith v The Queen}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1987) SCR 1045 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 State v Alifereti Nakautogo}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 HAA 130/97 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 State v}{\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Kishore Kumar}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 HAR 5/93 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 State v Makwanyane & Anr.}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1995) 6 BCLR 665 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Warner v Metropolitan Police Commissioner}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1969) 2 AC 256 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Weems v United States}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1910) 217 US 349 \par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Wynbyne v Adrian Arthur Marshall}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1997) 117 NTR 11 \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Viren Kapadia for the }{\i\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 a}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 pplicant \par Vilimoni Vosarogo for the Respondent \par Usaia Ratuvili for Proceedings Commissioner \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\b\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 30 July, 2001\tab \tab \tab }{\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 judgment }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Shameem, J \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This is a reference by the Suva Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Court to the High Court by way of case stated, seeking answers to the following questions: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\insrsid6323024 1) }{\fs24\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Is {\*\bkmkstart s8_b_Dange_Drugs_State_v_Audie_Pickering}section 8(b) {\*\bkmkend s8_b_Dange_Drugs_State_v_Audie_Pickering}of the Dangerous Drugs Act, as amended by the Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) Decree No. 4 of 1990 and the Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Decree No. 1 of 1991, in breach of {\*\bkmkstart Const_s25_1_State_v_Audie_Pickering}section 25(1) {\*\bkmkend Const_s25_1_State_v_Audie_Pickering}of the Constitution? \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\insrsid6323024 2) }{\fs24\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Is the mandatory term of imprisonment liable to be imposed on the offender in this case, disproportionately severe punishment and in breach of section 25(1) of the Constitution? \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Background}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par On the 22nd of January 1999, Audie Pickering, a twenty year old man with no previous convictions, was charged with the following offence: \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 FOUND IN POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 : Contrary to section 8(b) and {\*\bkmkstart s41_2_Dang_Drugs_State_v_Audie_Pickering}41(2) {\*\bkmkend s41_2_Dang_Drugs_State_v_Audie_Pickering} of the Dangerous Drugs Act Cap. 114, amended by the Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) Decree No. 4 of 1990 and Dangerous Drug (Amendment) Decree No. 1 of 1991. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Particulars of Offence}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 AUDIE PICKERING on the 7th day of October 1998 at Nasinu in the Central Division, was found to be in possession of 4.7 grams of dangerous drug namely, Indian hemp. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par The Defendant Audie Pickering requested the Director of Public Prosecutions to withdraw the charge, but the request was refused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 His counsel then on 8th November 2000 made an application to the Learned Resident Magistrate to refer the constitutional questions to the High Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 She agreed, and the matter came before the High Court on 20th April 2001.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Counsel for the Defendant asked to file affidavit evidence of the Defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s personal circumstances, and of the alleged offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Human Rights Commission was invited to appear to make submissions and leave was granted to the Proceedings Commissioner to appear under {\*\bkmkstart s37_4_HR_Cmsn_Act_State_v_A_Pickering}section 37(4) {\*\bkmkend s37_4_HR_Cmsn_Act_State_v_A_Pickering }of the Human Rights Commission Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The State was represented by counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions. All counsel wished to file written submissions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 They have done so, and the submissions and their oral arguments were well-researched and helpful. \par \par The affidavit of Audie Pickering sworn on 3rd July 2001, states that the Defendant was born on 6th February 1978.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 At the time of the alleged offence he was 20 years old.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He failed his 6th Form examinations in 1996 and left school.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He then worked for the Army, Technic Bitumen Pacific Ltd., Carpenters (Fiji) Ltd., and Feeders (Fiji) Ltd.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 At the time of the alleged offence he was unemployed, but in 1999 he worked a s a volunteer at the Fiji Recompression Chamber Society.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He is currently self-employed in a grass-cutting business, earning about $100.00 a week.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He lives with his parents and six siblings.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He attends church regularly, and according to his Church Minist er, is a member of the Church Youth Fellowship.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It appears that he and his family, are valued members of the congregation. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Submissions}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Counsel for the Defendant submitted that although all mandatory sentences were not necessarily severely disproportionate to the offence, the now amended section 8(b) of the Drugs Act is.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He says that the section is in breach of section 25(1) of the Constitution because it removes judicial discretion in sentencing young first offenders, it is against all sentencing pol icy and in any event it was effected by Decree and cannot have the same status as legislation which has survived parliamentary and democratic debate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He suggests that the Amendment Decrees 4 of 1990 and 1 of 1991 should be declared invalid or that the cou rt declare in this case that the mandatory three month minimum term would be in breach of the Constitution and therefore cannot be imposed. \par \par Counsel for the State did not oppose the submission that the Decrees imposing mandatory sentence were potentially unconstitutional but suggested that the Court adopt the approach of the Canadian Supreme Court in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Smith v The Queen}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1987) SCR 1045, }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Re B.C. Motor Vehicle Act}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1985) 2 SCR 486 and }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Latimer_v_Queen_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Latimer v The {\*\bkmkend Latimer_v_Queen_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Queen}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (2001) SCR 3, that is, that the question of whether the sentence of three months imprisonment is grossly disproportionate should be decided on a case-by-case basis.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In a further submission, filed a few days before this judgment was d ue to be delivered, another State Counsel, Mr P. Ridgeway from the DPP}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s Office, submitted that where the legislature in clear and unambiguous language, provides for a law, it should be upheld even when it is inconsistent with the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He referred to Australian High Court decisions to support this astonishing submission. \par \par Counsel for the Proceedings Commissioner agreed that mandatory sentences per se were not unconstitutional, but said that the Dangerous Drugs Act had been amended not by the legislative will, but by an executive Decree.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He said that all laws passed prior to the promulgation of the 1997 Constitution had to be scrutinised for compliance with the Constitution under section 195 of the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He submitted that if the Decrees did not satisfy the test under section 25(1), then they could be declared unconstitutional and invalid. \par \par He submitted, in the alternative, that even if the Decrees were valid, individual cases should be scrutinised to decide whether the mandatory term was disproportionately severe, and agreed that the Canadian Supreme Court}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s approach would be the most suitable, if this submission was accepted. \par \par As a result of the further submissions filed by Mr P. Ridgeway of the DPP}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s Office, I called all counsel to Chambers to see if they wished to respond.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The State}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s further submissions urged the court to uphold the Decrees even if they were in breach of the Constitution.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the course of this second hearing, it was apparent that Mr Ridgeway}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s submissions raised no new issues that had not already been raised in open court by State Counsel already on the record.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 What was new was the suggestion that the Decrees should be upheld even if they were in breach of section 25 of the Constitution. \par \par However during the Chambers hearing Mr Ridgeway conceded that there were some punishments which were so disproportionate and inhumane, that they could not survive a constitutional challenge under section 25(1).}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is, he said, a matter of degree, and a matter for the court to consider what is }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 severe and disproportionate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 given the social context of the punishment. \par \par In the light of this concession, it does not appear to be argued by the State that all punishments no matter how disproportionate, must be upheld by the courts on the ground of the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 legislative will.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par \par I then proceeded to judgment. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Law}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par The Dangerous Drugs Act Cap 114 originally provided as follows:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Every person }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 \endash }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s19 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 a.\tab}}\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls5\ilvl1\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 growing opium poppy, Indian hemp or coca leaf, whether for private use or otherwise; or}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s19 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 b.\tab}}\pard \s19\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls5\ilvl1\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6323024 { \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 found in possession of or selling, or who has given or sold to any person any substance to which this Part applies,}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 shall be guilty of an offence against this Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Section 41(2) of the Act provided:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Every person guilty of an offence against this Act shall in respect of each offence for which no penalty is otherwise prescribed be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding eight years or to both such fine and imprisonment, and shall in every case, on conviction for the offence, forfeit to the Crown, all articles in respect of which the offence was co mmitted....}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par In 1990 the Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) Decree 1990 was passed by the then President }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart s3_Dang_Drugs_Amdt90_State_v_A_Pickering}Section 3{\*\bkmkend s3_Dang_Drugs_Amdt90_State_v_A_Pickering} of the Decree provides: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Section 8 of the principal Act is repealed and the following substituted - \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 8. Every person}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s21\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (a) \tab growing opium poppy, Indian hemp or coca leaf, whether for private use or otherwise; or}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \s21\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \s21\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (b) \tab found in possession of or sells or otherwise traffics or engages in the trafficking of any substance to which this part applies, shall be guilty of an offence and upon conviction shall be sentenced to imprisonment in accordance with the Third Schedule of this Act - \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Provided that a sentence imposed under this section shall be custodial.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par The {\*\bkmkstart Sch3_Dang_Drugs_Act_State_v_A_Pickering}Third Schedule {\*\bkmkend Sch3_Dang_Drugs_Act_State_v_A_Pickering}of the Act provides inter alia, that a conviction under section 8(b) of the Act, if it relates to possession of Indian hemp not exceeding 10 grams, has a penalty of a maximum term of 24 months imprisonment and a minimum term of 3 months imprisonment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Third Schedule provides for minimum mandatory sentences for a number of dru g related offences, including a minimum of 5 years imprisonment for selling or trafficking Indian hemp in quantities exceeding 100 grams. \par \par After the passing of this Decree, it was held by the High Court in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart State_v_Kishore_Kumar_State_v_Pickering}State v}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Kishore {\*\bkmkend State_v_Kishore_Kumar_State_v_Pickering}Kumar}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 HC Revision No. 5 of 1993 that a minimum mandatory sentence need only be imposed if the court proceeded to conviction after the plea or finding of guilt.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In order therefore, to avoid imposing the mandatory minimum, the courts were preferring to discharge without conviction.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The then President then passed another Decree, on the 1st of February 1991.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 } {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It was the Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) (No. 1) Decree 1991.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart s2_Dang_Drugs_Amdt91_State_v_A_Pickering}Section 2{\*\bkmkend s2_Dang_Drugs_Amdt91_State_v_A_Pickering} of the Decree provides: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Section 8(b) of the principal Act is amended}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s18 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard\plain \s18\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7094671 \f29\fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 by inserting the word }{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 immediate}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 after the word }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 to}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 in the sixth line; \par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid7094671 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s18 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s18\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7094671 { \f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 by repealing the proviso to section 8(b) and replacing it by the following proviso - \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671 \par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Provided that the provision of {\*\bkmkstart s29_PC_State_v_A_Pickering}section 29{\*\bkmkend s29_PC_State_v_A_Pickering} of the Penal Code and any other law shall not apply to any sentence to be imposed under this Act.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par This last Decree removed all doubt as to the mandatory nature of the imprisonment for an offence under section 8(b) of the Drugs Act. \par \par As Pain J said }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart State_v_A_Nakautogo_State_v_A_Pickering}State v Alifereti Nakautogo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend State_v_A_Nakautogo_State_v_A_Pickering}Crim. App. No. HAA 130 of 1997 (at page 3): \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 ... the clear intention of section 8 (as substituted and amended by Decree) has been to provide for a mandatory immediate prison sentence as the penalty for the offence of possession of Indian hemp (and the oth er offences specified in the section), the term of such sentence to be within the minimum and maximum range stated in the Third Schedule.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par The Decrees were of course, followed by the 1990 Constitution, and then by the 1997 Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the sessions o f Parliament following the 1992 elections, no attempt was made by the legislature to repeal or amend the Dangerous Drugs Act in respect of the mandatory sentencing.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart s8_1_1990_Const_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Paragraph 8(1) {\*\bkmkend s8_1_1990_Const_State_v_Audie_Pickering}of the 1990 Constitution (the Preamble) provided: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 All existing laws shall have effect on and after the appointed day as if they had been made in pursuance of the Constitution and shall be construed with such modifications, adaptations, qualifications a nd exceptions as may be necessary to bring them into conformity with the Constitution and this Decree.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Section 8 of the Constitution provided that:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 No person shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading punishment or other treatment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par On 27th July 1998, the Constitution Amendment Act 1997 came into effect.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Const_2_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Section 2 {\*\bkmkend Const_2_State_v_Audie_Pickering} provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1)\tab This Constitution is the supreme law of the State.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s18 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (2)\tab}}\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7094671 \f29\fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Any law inconsistent with this Constitution is invalid to the extent of the inconsistency.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Const_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Section 3{\*\bkmkend Const_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering} provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7094671\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the interpretation of a provision of this Constitution: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7094671 \fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (a)}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \tab a construction that would promote the purpose or objective underlying the provision taking into account the spirit of this Constitution as a whole, is to be preferred to a construction that would not promote that purpose or object; and \par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid7094671 \par }\pard \s19\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7094671 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (b)}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \tab regard must b e had to the context in which the Constitution was drafted and to the intention that constitutional interpretation take into account social and cultural developments, especially: }{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \s19\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid7094671\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s21\ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid5204689 \fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (i) \tab developments in the understanding of the content of particular human rights; and \par }\pard \s21\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid7094671 \par }\pard \s21\ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (ii) \tab developments in the promotion of particular human rights.}{ \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Section 25(1) of the Constitution provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Every person has the right to freedom from torture of any kind, whether physical, mental or emotional, and from cruel, inhumane, degrading or }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 disproportionately severe treatment or punishment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (My emphasis) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Section {\*\bkmkstart Const_43_2_State_v_Audie_Pickering}43(2) {\*\bkmkend Const_43_2_State_v_Audie_Pickering}of the Constitution states, in relation to the Bill of Rights: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In interpreting the provisions of th is Chapter, the courts must promote the values that underlie a democratic society based on freedom and equality and must, if relevant, have regard to public international law applicable to the protection of the rights set out in this Chapter.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Finally, {\*\bkmkstart Const_195_2_e_State_v_Audie_Pickering}section 195(2)(e) {\*\bkmkend Const_195_2_e_State_v_Audie_Pickering}of the Constitution Amendment Act provides: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 all wri tten laws in force in the State...continue in force as if enacted or made under or pursuant to this Constitution and all other law in the State continues in operation;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par and section {\*\bkmkstart Const_195_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering}195(3) {\*\bkmkend Const_195_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering}provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Subject to section 2 written laws referred to in paragraph (2)(e) or (f) are to be construed on, and from the commencement of this Constitution, with such modifications and qualifications as are necessary to bring them into conformity with this Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Mandatory Sentencing Generally}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Section 8(b) which provides for a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment irrespective of the circumstances of offence or offender, is not a unique piece of law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Almost all common law jurisdictions have such provisions in their criminal law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Nor is it unique in Fiji.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Murder, for instance carries a mandatory term of life imprisonment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Mandatory terms of imprisonment have been subjected to much criticism by judicial officers and law reformists.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The reasons for such criticism are that mandatory minimum terms do not allow the judiciary to apply proper sentencing principles, and do not permit for adjustment according to the personal circumstances of the case.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 When the Crime (Sentences) Bill (now the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997 (UK)) was before the House of Lo rds for its Second Reading, Lord Bingham said: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is a cardinal principle of just sentencing that the penalty should be fashioned to match the gravity of the offence and to take account of the circumstances in which it was committed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Any blanket or scattergun approach inevitably leads to injustice in individual cases.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Despite judicial disapproval of mandatory minimum terms however, judicial opinion internationally, is that mandatory terms of imprisonment per se, are not unconstitutional, nor do they breach the doctrine of the separation of powers. \par \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Constitutional_Ref_State_v_A_Pickering}Constitutional Reference by the Morobe Provincial Government}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Constitutional_Ref_State_v_A_Pickering}(1985) LRC (Const) 642, the Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea considered the question.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Kapi D.C.J said in relation to the Constitution of Papua New Guinea which prohibits }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 inhuman and cruel punishment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 but is silent on proportionality: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Under section 37(2) only the Parliament can define a criminal offence and prescribe the penalty for that offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 As to what is the proper punishment for these offences is a power given only to Parliament.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The power of prescribing punishment for an offence is only limited to the extent that punishments which are prescribed are not of a kind that affect the inherent dignity of the human person.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Kable_v_DPP_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Kable v DPP }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Kable_v_DPP_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(NSW) (1996) 70 ALJR 814, the High Court of Australia in considering an Act which provided for preventative detention, said, at page 824 (per Dawson J): \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The doctrine of parliamentary supremacy is a doctrine as deeply rooted as any in the common law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is of its essence that a court, once it has ascertained the true scope and effect of an Act of Parliament, should give unquestioned effect to it accordingly.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Hinds_v_Queen_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Hinds v The Queen}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Hinds_v_Queen_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1977) AC 195, the Privy Council, in considering legislation in Jamaica which provided for, inter alia, mandatory minimum sentences for being in possession of firearms, said (per Lord Diplock) at page 226: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the exercise of its legislative power, Parliament may, if it thinks fit, prescribe a fixed punishment to be inflicted upon all offenders found guilty of the defined offence - as, for example, capital punishment for the crime of murder.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Or it may prescribe a range of punishments up to a maximum in severity, either with or, as is more common, without a minimum, leaving it to the court by which the individual is tried, to determine what punishment falling within the range prescribed by Parliament is appropriate in the particular circumstances of the case.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par It was on that basis that the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory found in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Wynbyne_v_Marshall_State_v_A_Pickering}Wynbyne v Adrian Arthur Marshall}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Wynbyne_v_Marshall_State_v_A_Pickering}(1997) 117 NTR 11, that a minimum mandatory term of imprisonment under the Sentencing Act 1995 was not in breach of the doctrine of the separation of powers in that it was not an interference with judicial independence in sentencing. (See also }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Palling_v_Corfield_State_v_A_Pickering}Palling v Corfield}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Palling_v_Corfield_State_v_A_Pickering}(1970) 123 CLR 52 (per Barwick CJ at p.58) \par \par Similarly the Solomon Islands Court of Appeal in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Gerea_v_DPP_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Gerea & Others v DPP}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Gerea_v_DPP_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1984) SILR 161 said that a mandatory fixed penalty for murd er was not unconstitutional and did not deprive a person of his constitutional right to a fair hearing provided the penalty was general and applied to all citizens.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Nor did such fixed penalty interfere with the independence of the judiciary. \par \par There is therefore a wealth of opinion, that the legislature generally has the power to impose minimum penalties without offending judicial independence. \par \par However, this is not to say that mandatory minimum terms can never be the subject of constitutional challenge.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 I n Australia of course, there is no constitutional bill of rights.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Fundamental rights in Australia are protected by the common law, statute and international law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The approach of the Australian High Court therefore to laws which offend fundamental human rights, is quite different from the approach of jurisdictions which have a constitutional bill of rights provision.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Indeed, with the rapid development of international human rights law, such legislation and punishments have been challenged and will no doubt continue to be challenged on the basis that they are inconsistent with, }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 the dignity of the human person}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (Kapi D.C.J. in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Morobe Provincial Government}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 supra, p.657). \par \par In the }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Morobe Provincial Government}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 decision, the majority decision was that a mandatory sentence for rape, was not inconsistent with the inherent dignity of the human person, and that the court considered that the Papua New Guinea Constitution did not permit an inquiry into the proportionality of sentences.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 However, it was conceded by the majority that excessiveness of sentence could lead to a finding that a punishment was cruel and unusual.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 As Bredmeyer J said at page 669: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 When Parliament imposes a mandatory sentence it stresses the public deterrent aspects of the punishment to the exclusion of other matters but I would not say that that }{\i\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 per se}{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 infringes section 36.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is, of course, unfair to offenders in that it gives dissimilar offenders the same penalty but is not, I think for that reason alone inconsistent with respect for the inherent dignity of the human person.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 As I see it, the }{ \fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 excessiveness of a mandatory penalty}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 can infringe section 36 but not the fact that it is mandatory.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par It was Lord Cooke in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Frazer_v_State_Service_State_v_Pickering}Frazer v State Services Commission}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Frazer_v_State_Service_State_v_Pickering} (1984) 1 NZLR 116 at 121, who said that there were some rights which were so fundamental, that even the legislature could not legislate them away.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the context of the Fiji Constitution this is recognised expressly.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 All laws passed before the passing of the Constitution must measure up to the requirements of the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 If they do not, they will be declared invalid to the extent of the inconsistency.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the context of section 25(1) of the Constitution, in order to successfully mount a challenge to a sentencing law, it is not enough to show that it is unfair.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The punishment must be shown to be cruel, inhuman, degrading, or disproportionately severe for the offence.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A mandatory minimum sentence is not necessarily in breach of section 25(1) nor of the doctrine of the separation of powers, but it can be, if it is shown to be cruel, inhuman, degrading or disproportionately severe for the offence. \par \par In this regard, Mr Ridgeway}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s submission that the legislature has the right to legislate away rights guaranteed by the Constitution, cannot be accepted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Australian decisions in this regard are of limited value in Fiji which not only has an entrenched Bill of Rights in its Constitution, but whose Constitution provides that it is the Supreme law, the law by which all laws are measured. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Section 25(1)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par {\*\bkmkstart Universal_Decl_art_5_State_v_Pickering}Article 5 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights {\*\bkmkend Universal_Decl_art_5_State_v_Pickering}and {\*\bkmkstart ICCPR_art_7_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Article 7 {\*\bkmkend ICCPR_art_7_State_v_Audie_Pickering} of The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights provide that: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par This declaration of the fundamental right not to be subjected to torture or inhumane treatment, is, in most written constitutions, declared to be an absolute unqualified right.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is not derogable even in an emergency.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The legislature cannot whittle the right down, or legislate it away in the interests (for example) of public order.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This is the case in Fiji}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s Constitution. \par \par There is good reason for the creation of such an absolute unqualified right to be free from inhumane and degrading treatment, or from torture.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The right, declared in 1948 to be a universal human right, emerged from the historical experiences of the gas chambers and concentration camps of Nazi Germany.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It emerged from the prisoner-of-war camps and emergency decrees of a world torn by war, suffering, degradation and inhumanity.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the context of that human experience, it is not surprising that the right of freedom from torture and inhumane punishment or treatment, should be an absolute, unqualified, and non-derogable right. \par \par Most jurisdictions with written constitutions have duplicated this provision as part of their Bill of Rights chapter.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Papua New Guinea Constitution added the words }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 or is inconsistent with respect for the inherent dignity of the human person.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par \par Since 1948, when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, human rights jurisprudence has developed in leaps and bounds.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Prior to 1948, in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Weems_v_US_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Weems v United States}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Weems_v_US_State_v_Audie_Pickering} (1910) 217 US 349, the United States Supreme Court, in interpreting the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution held that a prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment included a prohibition of excessive and disproportionate punishment.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This principle has been adopted by other countries with written Constitutions. \par \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart State_v_Makwanyane_State_v_A_Pickering}State v Makwanyane & Anr.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend State_v_Makwanyane_State_v_A_Pickering}(1995) 6 BCLR 665 the Constitutional Court of South Africa, declared the death penalty to be inhuman and degrading treatment, giving the section a generous and purposive interpretation, and giving effect to the underlying values of the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Also in South Africa, a mandatory sentencing regime for rape, has been declared constitution al, but only because the legislature provides that the court can give a lesser punishment if there are }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 substantial and compelling reasons.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart S_v_Swartz_State_v_Audie_Pickering}S v Swartz and Another}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend S_v_Swartz_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1999) SACR 380, Davis J said, on a constitutional challenge of this provision: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A sentence imposed by a court pursuant to this provision can be unconstitutional where it is so disproportionate to constitute cruel and degrading punishment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart R_v_Goltz_State_v_Audie_Pickering}R v Goltz}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend R_v_Goltz_State_v_Audie_Pickering} (1991) (3) SCR 485, the Canadian Supreme Court found that there was a need to test the proportionality of the sentence by reference to a hypothetical example which had to be reasonable, that i s, was there a reasonable hypothetical case for which the minimum sentence would be grossly disproportionate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Clearly this approach places minimum sentences in constitutional jeopardy, but this depends on the outcome of the hypothetical exercise and the c ase for unconstitutionality becomes all the weaker when there is room for deviation from the sentence, as is provided for in s.51(3)(a) of the Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Buzani_Dodo_v_State_State_v_A_Pickering}Buzani Dodo v The State}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Buzani_Dodo_v_State_State_v_A_Pickering}Constitutional Court of South Africa CCT 1/01, Akermann J said: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The concept of proportionality goes to the heart of the inquiry as to whether punishment is cruel, inhuman or degrading .... This was recognised in }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 S v Makwanyana}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Exp_AG_Organs_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Ex parte Attorney-General of Namibia, In re Corporal Punishment by Organs of State}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Exp_AG_Organs_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1992) LRC (Const) 515, the Supreme Court of Namibia declared that corporal punishment was no longer justifiable in a dem ocratic society.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 At page 518, Mahomed JA said: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The provisions of the Constitution must therefore be read not in isolation but within the context of a fundamental humanistic constitutional philosophy introduced in the preamble }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 to and woven into the manifold structures of the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart S_v_Vries_State_v_A_Pickering}S v Vries}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend S_v_Vries_State_v_A_Pickering} (1996) 12 BCLR 1666, 1996 SACLR Lexis 47, the Namibian High Court considered the right not to be subject to }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 under article 8 of the Namibian Constitution, in the context of a mandatory minimum sentence of three years imprisonment on a second conviction under the Stock Theft Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Court found, on the basis of the United States, Canadian and South African authorities, that }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 included }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 grossly disproportionate punishment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 and that the test for the judiciary to apply to particular legislation involved an inquiry as to whether the sentence }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 would be startlingly or disturbingly inappropriate with respect to hypothetical cases which could be foreseen as likely to arise commonly.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This principle continues to apply in Namibia (see }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart S_v_Likuwa_State_v_Audie_Pickering}S v Likuwa}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend S_v_Likuwa_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1999) SACLR 16 and }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Namunjepo_and_Os_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Namunjepo & OS}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Namunjepo_and_Os_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1999) SACLR 35. \par \par Another clear statement that the right of protection from cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment includes protection against disproportionality, comes from the Canadian Supreme Court, in a series of cases commencing with }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Re_BC_Motor_Veh_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Re B.C. Motor {\*\bkmkend Re_BC_Motor_Veh_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Vehicle Act}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1985) 2 SCR 486, and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Smith_v_Queen_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Smith v The Queen}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Smith_v_Queen_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1987) SCR 1045. \par \par In the latter case Smith pleaded guilty to importing seven and a half ounces of cocaine into Canada, contrary to {\*\bkmkstart s5_1_Narcotic_Ctrl_State_v_A_Pickering}section 5(1) of the Narcotic Control Act {\*\bkmkend s5_1_Narcotic_Ctrl_State_v_A_Pickering}.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He challenged the constitutional validity of the seven year minimum sentence imposed by {\*\bkmkstart s5_2_Narcotic_Ctrl_State_v_A_Pickering}section 5(2) {\*\bkmkend s5_2_Narcotic_Ctrl_State_v_A_Pickering}of that Act, saying that the pun ishment was cruel and unusual. \par \par The Supreme Court held that while the legislative purpose for passing the law was constitutionally valid, the test for assessing cruel and unusual punishment included a test for }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 gross disproportionality.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It held that in a ssessing whether a sentence was }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 grossly disproportionate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 the court must consider the gravity of the offence, the personal characteristics of the offender, and the particular circumstances of the case to decide what range of sentences would be appropriate to punish, rehabilitate, deter or protect society from the particular offender.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Although arbitrariness of the sentence is a factor for consideration, it is a minimal factor.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Supreme Court held the seven year minimum term of imprisonment was grossly disproportionate because section 5(1) covered substances of varying degrees of danger, disregarded the quantity imported and treated as irrelevant the reason for importing and a previous good record. The minimum sentence was therefore declared to be of no force or effect. \par \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 R v Goltz}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 [1991] 3 SCR 485, Goltz was found guilty of driving while prohibited under the BC M otor Vehicle Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The offence carried a minimum penalty of seven days imprisonment and a $300 fine for a first conviction.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Supreme Court of Canada held that the minimum sentence did not violate section 12 of the Canadian Charter of Rights.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It held t hat the general test for determining whether a punishment is cruel and unusual, is one of gross disproportionality, which must consider the gravity of the offence, the personal characteristics of the offender and the particular circumstances of the case.} {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It further held that the court can consider whether the punishment is necessary to achieve a valid penal purpose, whether it is founded on recognised sentencing principles, whether there are valid alternatives to the punishment imposed and whether a compa rison with other crimes reveals great disproportion.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 If the particular facts of the case do not warrant a finding of gross disproportionality, then the court may examine whether the statutory provision would be disproportionate in reasonably hypothetical circumstances. \par \par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Morrisey_v_R_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Morrisey v R}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \~ {\*\bkmkend Morrisey_v_R_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1999) SCR, Morrisey was convicted of the offence of criminal negligence, which carried a mandatory minimum term of four years imprisonment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Supreme Court held that section 12 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms provided a broad protection against punishment which was so excessive as to outrage society}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s sense of decency. \par \par In the earlier case of }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Re B.C. Motor Vehicle Act}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra) the Supreme Court held that law which provided for minimum terms of imprisonment for traffic offences which required no proof of mens rea, offended section 7 of the Canadian Charter.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Court held that while mandatory sentences did not per se violate the Charter, an absolute liability offence leading to mandatory imprisonment did. Wilson J said: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is basic to any theory of punishment that the sentence imposed bear some relationship to the offence: it must be a }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 fit}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 sentence proportionate to the seriousness of the offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Only if this is so, can the public be satisfied that the offender }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 deserved}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 the punishment he received and feel a confidence in the fairness and rationality of the system.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This is not to say that there is an inherently appropriate relationship between a particular offence and its punishment but rather that there is a scale of offences and punishments into which the particular offence and punishment must fit .... I believe that a mandatory term of imprisonment for an offence committed unknowing ly and unwittingly and after the exercise of due diligence is grossly excessive and inhumane.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Although the court decided the case on the question of whether such punishment offended the principles of fundamental justice under section 7 of the Canadian Cha rter, it was apparent that the proportionality of the sentence to the crime, was considered to be a fundamental principle of justice.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It was later to be applied directly to the question of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 cruel and unusual punishment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Smith}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra) and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Goltz}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra).}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Furman_v_Georgia_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Furman v Georgia}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkend Furman_v_Georgia_State_v_Audie_Pickering}(1972) 408 US 238 a similar approach was adopted.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Brennan J in that case referred to four principles in considering whether punishment accorded human dignity.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 These were, (at pp 367-372) that a punishment must not be so severe as to be degrading to the dignity of human beings, the State must not arbitrarily inflict a severe punishment, a severe punishment must not be unacceptable to contemporary society, and a severe punishment must not be excessive. \par \par In his strong dissenting judgment in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Morobe Provincial Government}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra), at page 694, McDermott J said, after discussing the US authorities and considerations for sentencing: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 There is a great deal of subjectivity involved with sentencing an offender for a minimum penalty crime.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Unlike a judge of the US Supreme Court, I also sit as a Judge of the National Court as circuit Judge in the first instance.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 What is cruel or i nhuman becomes not a matter of cold speculation or impersonal inquiry from a distance, it is something very real .... when the punishment to be applied is out of all proportion to the offence because one or more of the factors to which I have alluded must be disregarded, the resulting cruelty or inhumanity does not need definition.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It becomes the fact.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par It therefore was no coincidence that the 1997 Constitution Amendment Act, referred specifically to the right of protection against disproportionately severe punishment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 At the time the Constitution was drafted, and discussed at the Parliamentary Committee stages, the development of the concept of proportionality as an aspect of cruel, degrading or unusual punishment, by international human rights decisions , was available for perusal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Reeves Report (the Fiji Constitutional Review Commission Report) at page 147 confirms that.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It states: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Commission believes that first the Constitution should expressly forbid }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 disproportionately severe}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 punishment or other treatment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This would provide a clear standard with which to judge the appropriateness of particular penalties, taking into account the nature of the offence for which they are imposed.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It would also provide a constitutional basis for an appeal ag ainst a particular sentence claimed to be disproportionately severe, and help to promote consistency of sentencing policy between courts in different places.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Our section 25(1) therefore in using the word }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 disproportionate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 directly reflects the approach of the US Supreme Court, the Canadian Supreme Court, the Namibian and South African Courts and McDermott J}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s dissent in the }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Morobe Provincial Government}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is an affirmation that the courts, in interpreting section 25(1) of the Constitution, may look not only at the type of punishment imposed by the legislature but also at the degree of punishment imposed. \par \par Section 25(1) acknowledges and accepts, the changes to human rights law in the area of punishments, in the last 20 years. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Section 25(1) and the Dangerous Drugs Decrees}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par How do we assess disproportionality in relation to a punishment imposed by the legislature? \par \par It is not enough that the judge considers the sentence to be unfairly disproportionate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The sentence must be grossly or severely disproportionate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In interpreting section 25(1) in relation to a particular sentence, the court should prefer a construction which promotes the purpose or object underlying the provision (a purposive approach) and must }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 promote the values that underlie a democrati c society based on freedom and equality and must, if relevant, have regard to public international law applicable to the protection of the rights}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 ({\*\bkmkstart Const_s43_2_State_v_A_Pickering}section 43(2) {\*\bkmkend Const_s43_2_State_v_A_Pickering}of the Constitution). \par \par The clearest statements of how one is to approach the question of }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 disproportionality}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 come from the United States, Canadian and Namibian authorities. \par \par In Canada the first consideration is the purpose and effect of the law challenged.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Was the purpose a constituti onally valid one? Lamer J in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Smith v The Queen}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra) said: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In measuring the content of the legislation, the courts are to look to the purpose and effect of the legislation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Dickson J in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart R_v_Big_M_Drug_Mat_State_v_A_Pickering}R v Big M. Drug Mat {\*\bkmkend R_v_Big_M_Drug_Mat_State_v_A_Pickering}Ltd.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1985) 1 SCR 295 speaking for the majority of this Court said at p.331: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In my view both purpose and effect are relevant in determining constitutionality; either an unconstitutional purpose or an unconstitutional effect can invalidate legislation.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par The judiciary has a traditional deference to Parliament.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is for Parliament to pass laws, and for the judiciary to give effect to them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Most legislation will have a valid constitutional purpose because it would have been passed after much research, discussion and debate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A recommendation for legislative change normally comes from a group or department after a need for the change has been acknowledged.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A Minister, having discussed the matter with his/her own Ministry will then present a Cabinet paper.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The matter will be discussed in Cabinet before it is prepared in Bill form.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Once in Bill form, it is published so that the public and concerned parties can discuss it and make representations to their Member of Parliament.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 T he Bill, if it is not channelled to a Sector Committee for Parliament to hear further representation from the public and from government, will be debated in Parliament, both in the Lower and Upper House.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is only after this process that a Bill might become law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The law when passed by Parliament, and assented to by the President, has the status of a law passed through a democratic process.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 There is an assumption that Parliament speaks for the people and passes laws with the assent of the people.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This is the essence of democracy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is a powerful reason why the judiciary should defer to the will of Parliament.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Legislation passed by Parliament reflects in principle, the will of the people. \par \par However, as counsel for the Human Rights Commission submitted, the mandatory minimum sentence under the Drugs Act was not imposed by the legislature.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It was imposed by an executive act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It was passed by decree.} {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 There was no public discussion, no Parliamentary debate, and no opposition. \par \par In the context of a decree, not only is it more difficult to ascertain a legislative purpose, but the customary deference to legislation must surely give way to a very close scrutiny of the constitutional effect of what is an executive act, albeit acknowledged and saved by {\*\bkmkstart Const_s195_State_v_Audie_Pickering}section 195 {\*\bkmkend Const_s195_State_v_Audie_Pickering}of the Constitution. \par \par State Counsel suggested that given the very real problem of drug use, growth and trafficking in Fiji, deterrence was the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 legislative}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 purpose of the Decree.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Couns el for the Human Rights Commission suggested that because the Decree was the brain child of the Health Ministry, the purpose of the Decrees was to protect people from the harmful effects of drug-taking. \par \par It is not clear what the purpose of the Decrees was.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 However, it would be safe to assume that the Decrees were a response to the increased incidence of marijuana use in Fiji.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In terms of the sentences imposed, trafficking and growing are seen as more serious than possession which carries a three month minimum term. \par \par Mr Ridgeway suggested that the mandatory penalty for possession of less than ten grams of Indian hemp must be considered in the social context of Fiji including the damage done to society by drugs and the heavy c osts involved in dealing with the consequences of drug use and abuse. \par \par Insofar as sentencing policy generally reflects one or more of the four main purposes of punishment, that is, deterrence, prevention, rehabilitation and retribution, any of these aims, if reflected by the Drugs Act (Amendment) Decrees would be valid from the point of view of the justice system.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Furthermore the reasons why mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment are adopted, are well-known to criminal justice personnel.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 They are, that p unishment should fit the crime, that serious offenders should be incapacitated to protect the community, that it eliminates inconsistent sentencing and induces defendants to co-operate with authorities (see South African Law Commissions Issue Paper 11 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Sentencing Mandatory Minimum Standards}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 ) \par \par These purposes are not unconstitutional per se.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 As I have already said in this judgment, mandatory imprisonment is not unconstitutional per se.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 As such, although the question of constitutional validity is based on a n assumption that those who drafted and agreed to the Drugs Act (Amendment) Decree were concerned with legitimate sentencing goals, I am prepared to accept that the purpose of the Decrees was not unconstitutional. \par \par However, no matter how well-intentioned the executive or the legislature might be, if the effect of the law is unconstitutional, in that it offends the provisions of the Bill of Rights, it is}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 invalid to the extent of its inconsistency. \par \par What was the effect of the Decrees?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 And is the effect severely disproportionate to the offence?}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is not in dispute that the majority of offenders prosecuted under section 8(b) of the Drugs Act, are young first offenders.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Some are children, normally entitled to the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 imprisonment as last resort}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 protection unde r the Juveniles Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Nor is it in dispute that most offenders prosecuted under section 8(b), are in possession of very small amounts of marijuana.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is not difficult therefore to find the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 reasonably}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 hypothetical offender.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Counsel for the Defendant s ubmitted that the effect of imprisonment on a young, first offender who may otherwise have a bright future, has resulted in public unease and discomfort amongst criminal justice professionals.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He submitted that in removing a judicial discretion to give a non-custodial sentence for possession of small amounts of marijuana, the Decrees have an unconstitutional effect. \par \par Although the legislature is entitled to provide for sentences which reflect its view of the seriousness of the offence, it cannot do so (and whether it is by Act or by Decree is irrelevant) if it results in a severely disproportionate sentence, or according to the test of the Canadian Supreme Court in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Smith}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra), if it results in a punishment which is so excessive that it outrages standards of decency. \par \par What are the principles of proportionality in considering the constitutional validity of the effect of a law?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Canadian courts have considered firstly, the gravity of the offence, secondly, the circumstances of the offender, thirdly, a con sideration of the appropriate range of sentences for such offences, fourthly, a comparison with other crimes within the jurisdiction, and fifthly, whether in the case before the court, the sentence would be grossly disproportionate. (}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Smith}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra)). \par \par The Namibian Courts consider whether the punishment is startlingly inappropriate, for the reasonably hypothetical offender and whether in the context of Namibian society, the punishment is grossly disproportionate.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The U.S. Supreme Court test is whether t he punishment is so severe that it is degrading to the dignity of human beings, or that it is arbitrarily inflicted, or that it is unacceptable to contemporary society, or that it is excessively severe. \par \par Applying these principles to the amended section 8(b) of the Dangerous Drugs Act, I consider that the offence of possessing less than 10 grams of Indian hemp, to be the least grave of the offences created by the Act.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Clearly, possession of larger amounts of Indian hemp, cocaine and heroin are more serious, as are cultivating, selling and trafficking in drugs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 real mischief}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 under the Drugs Act is not the possession of small amounts of Indian hemp, but the acts of those who financially benefit from, and prey upon, the drug dependence of others.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This is implicit in the State}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s further submissions.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The thrust of the Drugs Act is against those responsible for the scourge of drugs in Fiji, not the children and young people who are the victims of the growers, dealers and traffickers. \par \par The penological purposes of the mandatory minimum of three months is as I have said, not clear because the amendment was by way of Decree.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 However, if the purpose of the Decree was to deter, protect the public and/or rehabilitate, than that purpose could adequately be met by penalties which are non-custodial.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Community Work Act for instance would admirably satisfy these penological purposes. \par \par Furthermore, comparing section 8(b) of the Dangerous Drugs Act with other offences in Fiji, there are no minimum mandatory sentence s for rape under section 149 of the Penal Code, which is seen as a far more serious offence, or for manslaughter, or for theft, robbery with violence or receiving stolen property.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A first offender who commits the offence of larceny in dwelling-house, or simple larceny will usually get a non-custodial sentence in accordance with sentencing principles.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A rapist on the other hand will not, the gravity of the offence outweighing good character. \par \par Children up to the age of 17 years, for all other offences will invariably get a non-custodial sentence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart s30_Juveniles_Act_State_v_A_Pickering}Section 30 {\*\bkmkend s30_Juveniles_Act_State_v_A_Pickering}of the Juveniles Act provides that a custodial sentence should not be imposed on children.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Section 30 of the Act provides:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 No c hild shall be ordered to be imprisoned for any offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par {\*\bkmkstart s31_Juveniles_Act_State_v_A_Pickering}Section 31 {\*\bkmkend s31_Juveniles_Act_State_v_A_Pickering}of the Juveniles Act provides that a juvenile may be imprisoned if found guilty of m urder, attempted murder or manslaughter or of wounding with intent if the court is of the view that none of the other methods of dealing with him or her is suitable.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Act therefore allows the court to give a juvenile a non-custodial sentence for murder.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Dangerous Drugs Decrees provide for no such discretion under section 8(b). \par \par The difference between murder traditionally seen as the most heinous of crimes, and possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana, is vast.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 There is no comparison.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A perso n who takes a life with malice aforethought cannot be put in a comparable category as a school student found with a }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 roll}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 containing a minute amount of Indian hemp. \par \par It is also of some relevance that while the word }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 possession}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 in section 8(b) does not cr eate an absolute liability offence, the law is that all the prosecution has to prove is that the accused consciously had something in his possession, and that that something was Indian hemp.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 As Lord Pearce said in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Warner_v_Metropolitan_State_v_Pickering}Warner v Metropolitan {\*\bkmkend Warner_v_Metropolitan_State_v_Pickering}Police Commissioner}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (1969) 2 AC 256, 305:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 I think the term }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 possession}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 is satisfied by a knowledge only of the existence of the thing itself and not its qualities and that ignorance or mistake as to its qualities will not excuse.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This would comply with the word }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 possess}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 .}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par The offence under section 8(b) of the Dangerous Drugs Act creates an offence akin to an absolute liability offence once conscious custody is proved.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This fact is also relevant to the question of proportionality of sentence. \par \par This application is of course limited to the effect of section 8(b), and the possession of small amounts of marijuana, and has no effect on the other provisions of the Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Suffice it to say, the more serious the offence, the better chances a mandatory sentence has of surviving a challenge under section 25(1).}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 This is because the question of gross disproportionality depends greatly on the seriousness of the offence in relation to the seriousness of the penalty. \par \par Therefore, in the case of a reasonably hypothetical offender, that is a young first offender found in possession of a small amount of Indian hemp, who is more likely than not to be the accused in each case, and for whom a non-custodial sentence wou ld be the norm, is a mandatory sentence of 3 months imprisonment so disproportionate to the offending that it offends ordinary standards of decency? \par \par In this regard, a consideration of what is severely disproportionate in Fiji is relevant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Although some c aution must be applied by the judiciary in embarking on what the Namibian Supreme Court called a }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 value judgment}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (Mahomed JA in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 {\*\bkmkstart Re_Corporal_Punishment_State_v_Pickering}Re Corporal {\*\bkmkend Re_Corporal_Punishment_State_v_Pickering}Punishment}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra)), the 1997 Const itution requires the courts to make just such an assessment. {\*\bkmkstart Const_s3_b_State_v_Audie_Pickering}Section 3(b) {\*\bkmkend Const_s3_b_State_v_Audie_Pickering}provides that in the interpretation of a provision of the Constitution, }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 regard must be had to the context in whic h this Constitution was drafted and to the intention that constitutional interpretation take into account social and cultural developments, especially:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s18 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (i)\tab}}\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls3\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 \f29\fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 developments in the understanding of the content of particular human rights; and}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s18 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (ii)\tab}}\pard \s18\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls3\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 { \f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 developments in the promotion of particular human rights.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par In the context of Fiji society, is the sentence disproportionately severe?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It cannot be disputed that all cultures in Fiji emphasise the nurturing of the young, the respecting of the elderly, and the protecting of the weak.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is this respect for humanity that forms the basis of our Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The Bill of Rights protects the young, the weak, the disempowered and the disadvantaged from unjust and arbitrary behaviour.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is this compassion and belief in the nurturing and protecting of our youth, that is the backbone of the Juveniles Act which provides that juveniles must not be imprisoned except for the most grievous of crimes and only if there is no other option. \par \par In the context of this society, our Fiji so ciety, the punishment of mainly young first offenders many of them children, for a mandatory term of 3 months imprisonment irrespective of the circumstances of their offending and in the absence of a significant mens rea, or evidence of intention, is clea rly grossly and disproportionately severe.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It offends the compassionate humanitarian spirit of the Bill of Rights. \par \par For the purposes of section 8(b) I consider that the possession of small amounts of Indian hemp, an offence akin to an absolute liability offence, by young people many of whom are first offenders, and whose personal circumstances are usually widely different, is an offence which cannot constitutionally lead to a mandatory term of imprisonment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 There is no doubt that some offenders may deserve a term of imprisonment, and no doubt will be given one in the ordinary exercise of judicial discretion.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 However, the act of imprisoning all offenders regardless of good character, extreme youth, differing amounts of the drug and different circumstances explaining the possession, is a sentence which is grossly disproportionate to the offence.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 It is so disproportionate that it offends public standards of decency in Fiji, and is }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 startlingly inappropriate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par \par The amended form of section 8(b) insofar as it applies to the possession of Indian hemp below 10 grams, is therefore in violation of section 25(1) of the Constitution. \par \par Having made this finding, what results from it?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In Namibia, in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 S v Vries}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra) the High Court said that where a punishment is found to be startlingly inappropriate or }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 shocking}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 , in a reasonably hypothetical case, there are four options open to the court (per Frank J. Gibson J concurring).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s20 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (i)\tab}}\pard\plain \s20\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls3\ilvl1\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 \fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 To declare the provision to be of no force and effect for all purposes; \par }\pard \s20\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s20 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (ii)\tab}}\pard \s20\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls3\ilvl1\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 { \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 To declare the provision to be of no force or effect only in a particular class of cases;}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \s20\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s20 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (iii)\tab}}\pard \s20\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls3\ilvl1\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 { \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 To declare the provision to be of no force or effect in respect of the particular case before the court;}{\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607 \par }\pard \s20\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid5204689\charrsid6323024 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s20 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (iv)\tab}}\pard \s20\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls3\ilvl1\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 { \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 To allow the legislature to cure the defect. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In that case, the court found nothing objectionable with a term of imprisonment, what was objectionable was the length of it.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 There was therefore a }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 reading down}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 to allow the court to impose a lesser term of imprisonment. \par \par In this case, it is the mandatory imprisonment, that is objectionable, or }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 startlingly inappropriate}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 for reasonably hypothetical offenders in Fiji}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s context. \par \par It is therefore not possible, given the clear words of the Decrees, to give the provision a restrictive interpretation as provided by {\*\bkmkstart Const_s43_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering}section 43(3) {\*\bkmkend Const_s43_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering} of the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Nor is it practical at this time in Fiji}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s history to await amendment through the legislative process.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 In the circumstances, I see no option other than to declare the amendment by Decrees No. 4 of 1990 and No. 1 of 1991 to section 8(b) of the Dangerous Drugs Act insofar as it applies t o a minimum sentence for the possession of Indian hemp under 10 grams, to be unconstitutional and invalid.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 I do so in accordance with the powers of this Court under section 195(3) of the Constitution and {\*\bkmkstart Const_s41_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering}section {\*\bkmkstart Const_s43_1_State_v_Audie_Pickering}41(3) {\*\bkmkend Const_s41_3_State_v_Audie_Pickering} {\*\bkmkend Const_s43_1_State_v_Audie_Pickering}of the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The maximum term of 24 months imposed by the Decrees for the offence remains. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Audie Pickering}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par Even if a particular punishment mand atory or otherwise were not declared unconstitutional for the reasonable hypothetical offender, it can still be challenged by the offender on the basis that the sentence would be disproportionately severe in the individual circumstances of his/her case.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The onus is on the offender to show a breach of section 25(1) of the Constitution. \par \par The Defendant has not pleaded guilty in the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Court, and is of course presumed innocent.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He is a first offender, he was 20 years old at the time of the offence, he has a history of unemployment and lack of educational achievement and has not succeeded in previous career choices.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He has a supportive, and it appears, caring family, and a concerned church community willing to help him to rehabilitate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He has recently started his own grass-cutting business and is doing well in that endeavour. \par \par He was found by police to be in possession of 4.7 grams of marijuana.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 The marijuana was found in a plastic bag in his pocket.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 There is no suggestion of trafficking, dealing or sale.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 He has no history of previous marijuana use. \par \par An appropriate sentence if he is found guilty or pleads guilty would probably be a non-custodial sentence with a rehabilitative recommendation such as community work under the supervision of his pastor.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Such a sentence would satisfy the penological principles under the Dangerous Drugs Act, and ensure that the offender does not get off }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 scot-free.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par \par It is unfortunate that there are no rehabilitation programmes recognised by the courts for drug offenders which might help them to desist from future use and protect society from the continued scourge of drugs.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 However, the answer is not, and cannot be, to send offenders such as the Defendant to prison where they may well be exposed to add itional criminal behavior.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Nor is the answer a severely deterrent sentence which makes the offender an }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 example}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 for other potential offenders.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 As Ackerman J said in }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Buzani Dodo}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 (supra) at p.31: \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Human beings are not commodities to which a price can be attached; they are creatures with inherent and infinite worth; they ought to be treated as ends in themselves, never merely as means to an end.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Where the length of a sentence, which has been imposed because of its general deterrent effect on others, bears no relation to the gravity of the offence .... the offender is being used essentially as a means to another end and the offender}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 s dignity assailed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6323024 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par A mandatory term of three months imprisonment for this Defendant who is a first offender, and clearly suited for rehabilitation is so grossly disproportionate to his offence that it is a clear breach of section 25(1) of the Constitution. \par \par Even if this application had failed on general constitutional invalidity, it would have passed on the severe disproportionality test for this particular offender. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Conclusion}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par The answers to the questions posed to this court are therefore: \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s18 \lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\langfenp3081\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 Q:\tab}}\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls4\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 \f29\fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Is section 8(b) of the Dangerous Drugs Act, as amended by the Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) Decree No. 4 of 1990 and Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Decree No. 1 of 1991, in breach of section 25(1) of the Constitution? \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s20\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 \fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A: \tab Yes, in respect of the minimum mandatory term of 3 months imprisonment for possession of less than 10 grams in Decree No. 4 of 1990 and Decree No. 1 of 1991. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Q:\tab Is the mandatory term of imprisonment liable to be imposed on the offender in this case, disproportionately severe punishment and in breach of section 25(1) of the Constitution? \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5204689 \f29\fs24\lang1033\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp3081 {\f0\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 A: \tab Yes. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5204689 \par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5204689 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Case Stated in the affirmative. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6323024 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 \par }\pard\plain \s15\qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5204689 \fs24\lang3081\langfe3081\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp3081 {\lang2057\langfe3081\langnp2057\insrsid13444607\charrsid6323024 Marie Chan \par }}