Staff Reporter
Citizens have welcomed the amendment of the Criminal law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Bill, 2022, saying it will go a long way in deterring paedophiles from abusing minors.
A member of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) from the Victim Friendly Unit (VFU) who spoke on condition of anonymity revealed that the law would assist law enforcement agencies to ensure that rape offenders are adequately punished whilst deterring would be offenders from committing the same offences.
“This is a good development as far as law enforcement is concerned. This mandatory 10years jail term is prohibitive and will ensure that offenders are adequately punished for the offence.
“This law will aid in preventing crimes by deterring would be offenders from committing similar offences,” said the Police officer.
A Ruwa resident Tafadzwa commended Government for this timely intervention while calling for stiffer penalties.
“This is a welcome and timeous development by Government. It’s a parent’s worst nightmare to hear that your child has been sexually violated. I, however, feel that stiffer penalties should be added to punish perpetrators,” said Tafadzwa.
Earlier this week, Government approved the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Bill, 2022.
This bill enhances the provisions of the Criminal Law Code in matters relating to the country’s sovereignty through the criminalization of conduct that undermines Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, dignity, independence and national interests. The Bill also provides for a mandatory sentence in rape and murder cases. In addition, it expands the definition of “dangerous drugs” and also amends the elements which form the crime of abuse of public office.
Zimbabwe has been gripped by a wave of minors as young as eight years falling pregnant. A nine year old girl from Tsholotsho gave birth to a baby girl through caesarean. Another minor in Bindura is currently pregnant as she is suspected to have been raped by her two 17 year old brothers. This has also left Zimbabweans shocked as more cases are suspected to be unknown.
Meanwhile, the citizens continue to commend the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the Second Republic for walking the talk by ensuring that the country’s laws are properly aligned with the constitution.
