The Government of Malawi has finally compensated 18 women and girls who were victims of rape by police officers around Mpingu and M’bwatalika in Lilongwe in 2018.
A press release signed by WLA President, Immaculate Maluza, disclosed that a ruling in favour of the victims was obtained with the court ordering the MPS to pay damages.
“On 9th March 2021, Assistant Registrar (Madalitso) Chimwaza sitting at Lilongwe High Court Registry issued a ruling on assessment of damages which determines the amount of compensation payable to each Applicant.
“Consequently, WLA would like to inform the public that the Government of Malawi has duly paid compensation to each of the 18 Applicants in JR Cause No. 7. The payment marks the conclusion of the civil aspect of the case” the statement read.
The case which was handled by the Women Lawyers Association (WLA) commenced in February 2020 as civil proceedings against the Malawi Police Service (MPS), the Clerk of Parliament, Ministry of Homeland Security, and the Inspector General of Police in Judicial Review Cause No. 7 of 2020 on behalf of the victims.
Stating its commitment to helping women in violent situations in the press release, WLA noted its stand on ensuring that the progression of the criminal aspect of the case, which would result in the specific officers charged under the relevant criminal laws. The Organization WLA also urged members of the community where the alleged acts of rape and sexual abuse took place against either harassing or threatening the victims as such acts constitute a crime under the law.
Comments are closed.