Class Debate 1

Motion-The Death Penalty Should NOT Be Completely Abolished
*By Jeremy

When citizens commit crimes, punishment must be dealt to them so as to warn them against committing it again, as well as to deter other citizens from committing the crime too. This is to establish law and order in a civilisation. Thus, in severe cases like murder and arson, measures must be taken to bring justice to the victims, such as, the death penalty. Recently, people had felt that the death penalty was too harsh and talks had been going on to decide whether to abolish the death penalty. Therefore, my stand today is that the death penalty should not be completely abolished.

In Singapore, the Court hands out the death penalty. It does so in response to crimes like murder and drug trafficking. For example, recently, Took Leng Hao was given the death penalty for murdering Huang Na a year ago. It was fair and just as Took had taken a life and caused the misery of Huang Na's family. There is a Chinese saying: a life for a life, hence to deal with murderers, the death sentence is necessary.

Think about it. If there is no death penalties in our lives, would there still be law and order? People would be killing each other for the wrong reasons just for their personal interests and would get away scot free. Even if they received a fine, what if they continue to commit severe crimes and cause chaos?

To conclude, the death penalty is essential and it should NOT be abolished.