Chemical castration for rapists is risky – Million Men Organisation
Polokwane-based clinical psychologist, Mokgaetji Mamabolo has advised that while it may seem like an immediate solution to deter rapists, it does more harm to the perpetrator's psychology than good.
POLOKWANE – The Million Men March Organisation in Limpopo said although the ANC Women’s League’s proposal to chemically castrate convicted rapists as a form of punishment may calm the plight of rape, the act is still very risky.
They argued that some people get falsely convicted, especially in crimes associated with rape.
The Women’s League brought about the idea at the governing political party’s national policy plenary session that was held last Sunday, after a spike in rape statistics in the country was noted.
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The male support group’s leader, Chris Mokoditoa said if the chemical castration proposal is successful, it is the responsibility of the justice system to then strengthen criminal investigation measures to avoid committing the painful, but not permanent act, against innocent people.
He has, however, in the case of serial rapists and repeat offenders, said chemical castration should apply.
“They must be castrated chemically so that they never have the opportunity to rape another woman,” Mokoditoa added.
Meanwhile, Polokwane-based clinical psychologist, Mokgaetji Mamabolo has advised that while it may seem like an immediate solution to deter rapists, it does more harm to the perpetrator’s psychology than good.
“Psycho-social health, human rights, and ethics must be executive highlights when making such a crucial decision about people’s lives, no matter what they have done before,” Mamabolo said.
She added that if it is to be performed, the perpetrator should give some sort of consent because genital sapping has proven to cause severe mental health issues.
“The person may experience depression or anxiety relating to the physiological changes which they may have undergone, as well as the natural frustration of adjusting to the changes.”
Local community member Mosima Ramaphakela is adamant that only castration can weaken the rape culture as prisons have become centres of comfort for criminals.
“In jail, they give them free food, education, and clothes while the victims are left with permanent scars,” she added.
