Proposal To Punish Both Parties In ‘Consensual’ Rape Cases Needs Review – Kelantan Mufti

KOTA BHARU, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Kelantan Mufti Datuk Mohamad Shukri Mohamed said that the call by the Kelantan police chief, Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat, for the authorities to take legal action against both parties in a ‘consensual’ statutory rape case warrants careful consideration.

Mohamad Shukri said that, while it reflects Mohd Yusoff’s personal view, the suggestion raises essential issues concerning justice and the enforcement of civil and Syariah law.

“Personally, I feel the current law should be reviewed to ensure all parties involved receive fair treatment.

“…in any action taken, parents should be involved, especially in cases concerning minors, rather than letting the matter be resolved without their participation,” he told Bernama today.

He said social problems must be addressed at the source, rather than only responding after a case arises.

“Like the issue of drugs, the government spends heavily to tackle it, but cultivating values and faith should be emphasised from school onwards,” he added.

Mohamad Shukri called for clearer and more transparent solutions to prevent injustice in cases involving moral offences and Syariah criminal law in the country.

Recently, Mohd Yusoff proposed that both parties involved in underage consensual sex face punishment to ensure justice is served.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail was reported today as saying that Mohd Yusoff’s statement reflects his personal view, stemming from concerns over the number of sexual offences in Kelantan.

-- BERNAMA