Political activist Morara Kebaso has recently found himself at the center of a heated debate after making comments deemed sexually insensitive regarding defilement cases. His statements, made during a discussion with a group of youth shortly after his release from court on cybercrime charges, have sparked outrage across social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). The controversy raises critical questions about societal attitudes toward sexual violence, the legal system, and the responsibilities of public figures in addressing such sensitive topics.
The Controversial Remarks
The controversy began when a video clip of Morara’s conversation with the youth went viral. In it, he recounted his experiences while incarcerated, including an encounter with a remandee charged with defilement. Morara advised the accused to seek a dialogue between families rather than pursue legal remedies. His words—”I found someone with a defilement case… for him to find help, I requested him to ask his family to speak to the family of the girl”—were seen by many as an attempt to trivialize a serious issue.
His comments sparked immediate backlash. Critics argued that such sentiments perpetuate harmful narratives that downplay the severity of sexual violence, particularly against minors. They pointed out that proposing a family meeting undermines the legal system’s role in addressing defilement, which is a criminal act.
Reaction from Activists and the Public
Prominent voices in the fight against sexual violence were quick to condemn Morara’s statements. Njeri Migwi, founder of the ‘Usikimywe’ movement, expressed her disappointment on X, stating, “We DO NOT solve defilement of children by mediation between parents and perpetrators. We jail defilers and rapists.” Her response encapsulates a growing sentiment among activists that child defilement is a serious crime that should never be treated as a family issue.
The response to Morara’s remarks was swift, with many users on X echoing Migwi’s sentiments. Critics emphasized that defilement is not merely a legal issue but a significant societal concern that requires a firm response to protect children. One user questioned Morara’s logic: “What do you mean underage behaving like an adult? How, exactly, should a 17-year-old girl behave? So, because she behaved like an adult, she deserves to be defiled?”
This backlash highlights the broader societal implications of Morara’s comments. They reflect a dangerous tendency to excuse or downplay the actions of perpetrators while blaming victims, particularly young girls, for their circumstances.
Morara’s Defense
Despite the backlash, Morara Kebaso stood by his statements, arguing that the Sexual Offences Act requires a review. He contended that the law disproportionately affects boys, suggesting that it could punish them for engaging in consensual activities with underage girls. He cited cases where teenage couples were caught in compromising situations, noting that often only the boy faced legal repercussions.
He claimed, “In this instance, two teenagers, one of 17 years and another of 15 years, were caught experimenting with their biology. Only the boy was arrested and is being charged with defilement.” This perspective indicates a belief that the legal system should account for the complexities of adolescent relationships, but many argue that it fails to recognize the power dynamics and potential exploitation involved in such cases.
The Need for Reform and Public Education
While there is merit in discussing legal reforms regarding the treatment of teenage relationships, many critics argue that Morara’s approach distracts from the primary issue at hand: the protection of minors from sexual exploitation. The notion that a young girl’s behavior could somehow mitigate the severity of defilement is particularly troubling, as it reinforces victim-blaming narratives that have long plagued discussions around sexual violence.
Morara’s suggestion for civic education and legal reform is not entirely unfounded. It is true that a significant number of individuals remanded for sexual offenses are men, and this warrants a broader conversation about the legal framework and its implications for young people. However, any reforms must prioritize the protection and welfare of minors over the interests of those accused of sexual offenses.
Judicial Perspectives on Defilement
The criticism of Morara’s remarks echoes sentiments previously expressed by legal authorities in Kenya. In April 2023, Chief Justice Martha Koome warned against resolving defilement cases through alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, stating that such serious offenses must be dealt with in court. Similarly, former Chief Justice David Maraga has previously emphasized that child defilement cases should never be resolved at home, advocating for legal action against perpetrators.
These judicial perspectives underscore the need for a consistent and robust response to defilement cases. The legal system must act decisively to protect victims and ensure that offenders are held accountable. Public figures like Morara Kebaso have a responsibility to contribute positively to this discourse rather than perpetuating harmful attitudes.
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Conversations
The backlash against Morara’s comments illustrates the power of social media in shaping public discourse. Platforms like X provide a space for individuals to voice their concerns and challenge insensitive remarks, holding public figures accountable for their statements. The collective outrage serves as a reminder that discussions around sexual violence and defilement are sensitive and require careful consideration and empathy.
As the conversation continues, it is essential to prioritize the voices of survivors and advocates who have long fought for justice and reform in cases of sexual violence. Their experiences and insights are invaluable in shaping a more compassionate and effective legal response to defilement and other forms of sexual abuse.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Morara Kebaso’s comments on defilement highlights a critical intersection of politics, law, and social responsibility. While there may be valid points regarding the complexities of adolescent relationships and the need for legal reform, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of minors and the seriousness of sexual offenses.
Public figures have a unique platform to influence societal attitudes and legal frameworks, and it is essential that they use this power responsibly. As the debate unfolds, it is clear that a collective effort is needed to ensure that the voices of victims are heard, that offenders are held accountable, and that society moves towards a more just and equitable response to sexual violence. The path forward must involve a commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of all individuals, particularly the most vulnerable among us.
