THE nation is facing a deeply troubling surge in sexual violence, and the consequences are devastating—particularly for the most vulnerable victims: children.
The recent sentencing of Ntuta Ranthana to 10 years’ imprisonment without parole for the rape of a four-year-old child has drawn strong reaction on social media with many condemning it as lenient. We could not agree more. While the court must be commended for using the right words in condemning rape, we agree with those who say a 10 year sentence for raping a child, is not an adequate deterrent. It simply did not go far enough. For a crime of such brutality, justice has not been served. Child rapists must be hanged or imprisoned for life.
In handing down the sentence, Magistrate Puseletso McPherson delivered a powerful message against sexual violence and reminded the nation of its duty to protect children. Her remarks spoke to the gravity of the offence and the lasting trauma inflicted on victims. Yet, despite this strong moral position, the punishment appears lenient when measured against the severity of the crime.
Rape, especially of a child, is among the most heinous violations imaginable. It destroys innocence, inflicts lifelong psychological harm, and erodes the very fabric of society. A 10-year sentence, even without parole, falls short of the level of deterrence required to confront a crisis of this magnitude. There is a growing and justified call for harsher penalties, life imprisonment should be the standard sentence for rapists, particularly those who prey on children.
We are fully aware of the restrictions on sentences the law places on magistrates’ courts. Which calls for rape cases to join murder, among other cases tried in higher courts, with the jurisdictional authority to impose stiffer penalties.
This case is not an isolated incident. It reflects a broader and deeply disturbing pattern, one that has also been highlighted by Police Commissioner, Advocate Borotho Matsoso. The Commissioner’s recent concerns about rising sexual offences and violent crimes against women and children provide critical context to the magistrate’s remarks. Together, they point to a justice system under pressure and a society grappling with a crisis of violence within its own homes and communities.
According to the latest policing report, sexual offences are now the most prevalent crimes in the country. Yet, despite their frequency, the response has been far from adequate. With only 31 percent of such cases resolved and a significant number still pending, there is a growing gap between crime and justice. While the courts, as seen in this case, are prepared to impose stern sentences, the effectiveness of the system as a whole depends on cases being properly investigated, prosecuted, and concluded in a timely manner. The sentences should still be sterner.
The magistrate’s emphasis on the collective responsibility of society is particularly important. “Every child belongs to the community,” she noted—a powerful reminder that the protection of children cannot be left to families alone. In many instances, as highlighted during the trial, perpetrators are known to their victims and may even be trusted figures. This makes it imperative for communities to be vigilant, to speak out, and to intervene when something seems wrong.
Adv Matsoso has similarly called for community involvement, urging citizens to report crimes without fear. However, this call will only be effective if people have confidence in the system. When cases drag on unresolved or when victims feel unsupported, reporting becomes less likely. Building trust between communities and law enforcement is therefore essential.
At the same time, the brutality described in both the courtroom and police reports points to a deeper societal problem. Sexual violence, particularly against children, is not simply a law enforcement issue—it is a reflection of broken values, unchecked behaviour, and, in some cases, a culture of silence. The absence of remorse noted by the prosecution in this case is especially troubling. It suggests not only individual moral failure but also a lack of deterrence.
This is why the 10-year term without parole imposed in this case, is not harsh enough. Despite magistrate McPherson’s correct words of condemnation of this crime, her sentence doesn’t tally enough. Rapists of children must be hanged or imprisoned for life. In South Africa – whose laws mirror Lesotho’s, rape attracts automatic life imprisonment. But punishment alone is not enough. Prevention must become a national priority.
Communities must be equipped with knowledge about child protection, signs of abuse, and the importance of early reporting. Parents and guardians must take greater responsibility in safeguarding children, while institutions such as schools and churches should play an active role in awareness and support.
Furthermore, the justice system must be strengthened at every level. The Commissioner’s call for increased funding is justified, particularly if it leads to improved investigative capacity, better training for officers handling sensitive cases, and faster case processing. Specialised units dealing with sexual offences could also help ensure that victims are treated with care and dignity, reducing the risk of further trauma.
The Ranthana case also highlights the importance of victim support. The magistrate’s hope that the child receives counselling is a crucial point. Justice does not end with sentencing; victims require long-term psychological and emotional support to recover from such experiences. Without that, the impact of these crimes will continue to reverberate through families and communities.
The rise in sexual violence, particularly against children, is a national crisis that demands more than words. It requires coordinated action, stronger institutions, and a renewed commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.
Lesotho must decide what kind of society it wants to be. One where children live in fear, or one where they are protected, valued, and allowed to grow in safety. The answer lies not only in courtrooms and police stations, but in the everyday actions of communities across the country.