After a lengthy six-year legal battle, the High Court in Lautoka has finally delivered a guilty verdict against a man charged with raping a minor relative in 2018. Justice Aruna Aluthge announced the decision last week following the trial, where the court found that the prosecution’s case met the standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
The accused faced one count of rape and one count of assault with the intent to commit rape, stemming from an incident that occurred on September 10, 2018, when the victim, now 19 years old, was visiting her uncle’s home. Initially pleading not guilty, the man’s case was ultimately decided in court, underscoring the lengthy process often required in sexual assault cases.
The court is yet to schedule a sentencing date for the guilty party. This case highlights the importance of the judicial process in addressing serious crimes and emphasizes the resilience of survivors in seeking justice, even amidst lengthy proceedings.
It’s vital that society continues to support survivors and advocates for timely justice to ensure that such crimes are addressed effectively. The focus now should shift toward fostering a legal environment that prioritizes the well-being of victims and holds offenders accountable in a timely manner.
Leave a comment