The passage of amendments to the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act now paves the way for drunk drivers to be charged with motor manslaughter and causing grievous bodily harm.
The amendments were passed on Monday in the National Assembly with the full support of the government side of the House and lone opposition member, Deputy Speaker and Leader of the Liberty and Justice Party, Lenox Shuman.
The Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2022 has been amended to provide for the offences of motor manslaughter and causing grievous bodily harm while driving under the influence of alcohol or a drug. The Bill also amends the sections of the Principal Act relating to the offences of causing death by reckless or dangerous driving, driving under the influence of drink or drugs, and driving or attempting to drive a motor vehicle when the person has consumed alcohol that exceeds the prescribed limits.