Her comments come amid growing public concern over the increasing number of child rape incidents, one of the most shocking being the case of a father allegedly raping his seven-year-old daughter while she was in hospital for cancer treatment.

Kasune-Zulu argued that such severe measures were essential to protect children and serve as a strong deterrent to would-be offenders. "The nature of this crime calls for equally harsh responses to ensure the safety of our children," she stated. "It is critical that we send a clear message that the sexual abuse of children will not be tolerated under any circumstances."

Her remarks reflect the widespread outrage in Zambia over the rising incidence of child sexual abuse. In response to the crisis, civil society groups and concerned citizens organised a peaceful protest in Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, calling on the government to take stronger action against perpetrators. During the protest, a petition was submitted to Vice-President Mutale Nalumango, urging the government to amend existing laws to impose tougher sentences on child rapists.

The petition also demanded that individuals accused of child rape should not be granted bail, citing concerns that allowing bail would further endanger vulnerable children and undermine efforts to protect them.

--ChannelAfrica--