I’m still shell shocked that theft of motor vehicle is a non-bailable offence while rape is bailable in Zambia. I don’t quite know the reasoning behind those two laws but at face value that’s quite a mismatch, just think about it…it looks like we’re placing more value on a car than human life.
Of course upon conviction the offence of rape carries an imprisonment period of 15 years to life but making rape non-bailable is less about it being a deterrent for future offenders and more about protecting rape and defilement victims. Once a person commits a rape and makes bail, they can further threaten, torment or repeatedly rape the victims and or their families, this is really important issue.
I keep reading about how civil society has been trying for sometime to make rape non-bailable, what’s the hold up? This is where awareness is needed, there is need for every concerned citizen to educate themself, read up, talk to your lawyer friend, call the human rights commission, visit women’s organisation and put tough questions to local area MP, to me this would seem more effective than mere hashtags.
The only time we ever care concern ourselves with changing laws is when we’re debating what type of electoral system will be used to determine the presidency but at whose expense? What kind of message are we sending to sexual perpetrators knowing they could still silence their victims while awaiting trial?
Think about it, we can help make rape non-bailable in our lifetime if we can ask the right questions, educate ourselves and spread awareness.
Little guy, I gotta say your parents are doing a great job, you’re the most charming person I know and your politeness always makes my day. You say bank you (thank you) uncle whenever I open your bottle of nukie (milk), juice or water..you say bless you to anyone who sneezes, you always say sowi uncle when I wince or say ouch whenever you hit me with your bike. You say here you go everytime you’re handing me a remote or my phone and when I say thank you, your response is you ocum (welcome) uncle. You’ve been the best part of my day every single day the past two months, you’ve gotten me through the hardest parts and you don’t even know it. Hope I can be there for you the same way some day. God bless your life young king
A Penny For Your Thoughts 