Leaders in Sebei Sub-region have expressed concern that elders, in collusion with village chairpersons, are undermining efforts to combat teenage pregnancies and early marriages by informally settling defilement cases.
According to the police, about 60 defilement cases are reported monthly in the three districts of Bukwo, Kween, and Kapchorwa, which make up the sub-region.
Defilement, a crime established in 1990, prohibits sexual intercourse or attempts with a girl under 18 years old and carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Aggravated defilement applies when the victim is under 14, the offender has HIV/Aids, is the victim’s parent or guardian, or is a serial offender.
Mr Brian Kapyagon, the Bukwo District Youth chairperson, last week said: "Instead of reporting cases to the police, elders settle the matter by negotiating terms with the perpetrator, often in exchange for cows or money."
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