Human rights organisations in Malawi have expressed strong concerns over a government proposal to introduce castration (chemical or surgical) as a possible punishment for individuals convicted of rape and defilement.
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According to the Malawian parliament, existing prison sentences are too lenient to deter the rising number of sexual offences.
Mary Thom Navicha, Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, confirmed the decision in Parliament.
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According to her, the ministry is actively consulting stakeholders on the feasibility of implementing harsher penalties, including castration, within Malawi’s legal framework.
She added that the policy was a response to calls for stronger measures to protect women and children as cases of sexual violence spikes.
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The Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) says the law potentially breach Sections 19(1), (3), and (4) of Malawi’s Constitution, which safeguard human dignity.
They also stated concerns over gender equality, since the punishment is male-specific nature and questions its application in cases involving female offenders.
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As of April 2026, no bill has been tabled, and the government has stressed that any final decision will involve thorough legal and ethical review.
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