KALIATI WORRIES OVER DELAY IN DEFILEMENT CASES

By Esther Manduwa

Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare Patricia Kaliati has expressed concern over delay in finalizing rape and defilement cases.

Speaking in an interview with Timveni Online, Kaliati cited Mulanje and Phalombe districts.

Kaliati said the tendency is fueling hostility among community members.

Patricia Kaliati stressed the need to have strong penalties to cramp down on rape and defilement. 

Kaliati said her ministry and stakeholders fighting for girls’ rights are doing everything possible to end the malpractice but finalizing cases involving rape and defilement is a big challenge.

The Minister has since asked Police and the Courts to fast track such cases for the country to register meaningful progress in the fight against the vices. 

Kaliati warned to name and shame individuals who will frustrate efforts aimed at ending rape and defilement.

She has also asked parents to help in the fight against child marriages.