Parliament passes domestic violence Bill

Nov 12, 2009

PARLIAMENT yesterday passed the Domestic Violence Bill.

By Catherine Bekunda and Cyprian Musoke

PARLIAMENT yesterday passed the Domestic Violence Bill.

The Bill provides for the protection of victims of domestic violence and seeks to punish the crime perpetrators.

The MPs expressed hope that the Bill would reduce domestic abuse.

“Police statistics show that 40% of crimes committed in 2008 were crimes of passion or related to domestic violence,” noted Betty Amongi (Independent).

Domestic violence complaints will be made to a Police officer and local council court.

Cases will then be tried by the local councils, the magistrates’ courts or family and children courts, depending on the magnitude of the offence.

Previously, such matters were referred to clan heads or the local council.

The law stops the social tolerance of domestic violence by making it clear that the crime is not justified, explained Ben Wacha (Independent).

He said women in the Lango region used to believe that husbands who did not beat their wives did not love them.

Beatrice Byenkya (NRM) called for the sensitisation of the public and the involvement of religious leaders if the law is to be effective.

According to the law, anyone who suspects domestic violence can report it to the local authorities.

It empowers local council courts to make written referrals to the Police and the magistrates’ courts or High Court if the perpetuator is a second or repeat offender.

The magistrate’s court will then issue a protection order if it has confirmed that the perpetuator has committed, is committing or threatening to commit an act of domestic violence.

“The perpetuator will be directed to stay away from the victim,” explained Stephen Tashobya, the chairperson of the legal affairs committee.

In determining the claim for compensation, courts will consider the pain and suffering of the victim and the nature and extent of the physical or mental injury suffered.

Winifred Matsiko (NRM) said the law was not only limited to physical harm, but also economic, emotional, verbal and psychological abuse.

Perpetrators of domestic violence will also be fined, imprised or be ordered to pay compensation to the victim.

Reports show that 68% of Ugandans experience domestic violence.

About 90% of children report experiencing physical violence, with 38% of the violence happening at home.

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