Lesotho proposes death penalty for HIV-positive rapists

Aug 7,2002

 MASERU, Lesotho - HIV infected rapists who know they carry the deadly virus could face the death penalty under a bill introduced Wednesday in Lesotho's parliament.

 The bill, introduced by Justice Minister Refiloe Masemene, would provide for the compulsory testing of all sexual offenders. Those who knew they were infected could be put to death; those who did not know they were infected would receive a sentence of at least 10 years.

 Lesotho, an impoverished southern African country completely surrounded by South Africa, is one of countries hardest hit by HIV, with an estimated 31 percent of adults infected.

 Health Minister Motloheloa Phooko said the new legislation was necessary because of the rising number of rapes, particularly among children.

 The bill would also make child molestation, commercial exploitation of children and child prostitution illegal.

 Anyone convicted of persistent sexual abuse of children would be sentenced to at least 10 years in jail.