Traditional Doctor Sentenced to 14 Years IHL for Raping 18-Year-Old Woman
Traditional doctor sentenced to 14 years IHL for raping 18-year-old woman.
Nsanje, Malawi – The Nsanje First Grade Magistrate Court on Tuesday convicted and sentenced a 50-year-old traditional doctor, Pangaunye Mavula, to 14 years Imprisonment with Hard Labour (IHL) for raping an 18-year-old woman, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
The court heard that on April 18, 2023, the victim went to Mavula's house to have her marriage rebound.
After performing the ritual, Mavula demanded K25,000 in payment, which the victim could not afford.
Mavula then threatened the victim, telling her that he would put a curse on her if she did not pay. He then forced her into his room and raped her.
Mavula pleaded not guilty to the charge, but the state was able to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt with the testimony of two witnesses.
In mitigation, Mavula asked for a lenient sentence, saying that he is a breadwinner.
However, the prosecutor argued that the offence was planned and that Mavula deserved a custodial sentence to deter others from committing similar crimes.
The magistrate agreed with the prosecutor and sentenced Mavula to 14 years IHL.
Mavula hails from Mozambique.