Should rapists be executed? (WASSCE Article)

 

Some people argue that rapists should be executed. In an article suitable for publication in a national newspaper, express your opinion on this controversy. (WAEC WASSCE 2002)

Below is a model answer to the above WAEC question:

Should Rapists be Executed?

Rape is the crime of sexual assault, and those who commit it are called rapists. Medical dictionaries agree that rape occurs when one person engages in sexual activity with another against their will. The recent spike in rape cases across the country shows no signs of slowing, and it may be something that follows us around for the rest of our lives. In debates about this problem, more people have always called for the death penalty for rapists. Rapists, in their view, have no right to coexist with civilised society and should be put to death.

I suspect we will have different opinions for several reasons. In recent years, there has been a rise in the prevalence of girls wearing provocative clothing. The rise in reported cases of rape can be directly attributed to the ways of dressing that are sometimes referred to as "fashion." Miniskirts and tight dresses make men who see them want to get physically close to them. The men just can't help themselves when their privates are on display. Some lustful advances and touches on women are made as the men lose control of their emotions. If they resist the temptation of these sexual pleasures, they will be raped.

It's also worth noting that some women who have been raped end up pregnant and having children of their own. These helpless youngsters have the same needs as any other kid: to be loved and cared for by a father. Even a "godly rapist" can't always be counted on to be there when his kid needs him. If this man is put to death for the sole reason that he had sexual relations with his child's mother against her will, the kid will grow up without a father and be a bastard.

It is worth repeating that the rapist is still a human being who, flaws and all, deserves to be treated with dignity. In any case, the right to life is inherent to all humans; the Bible even explicitly forbids taking someone's life. In some cases, husbands will molest their own wives. Is it possible that they will also be put to death? Do their spouses share their views? Their inherent rights should not be violated in any way.

Alternatives to capital punishment exist for reducing the number of rape cases. One method is to encourage women to dress more modestly. In the Islamic North African region, for example, rape is not widely reported, which may be related to how women in that region dress. Women in this culture are taught to dress modestly so as not to arouse the lustful attentions of men. Additionally, the media should restrict the amount of pornographic content they broadcast or print. I believe that a significant step toward reducing the number of rape cases can be made if people are exposed to as little pornography as possible.

As a result of the ripple effect it would have on society, I cannot endorse the execution of a rapist. The right to life is the most fundamental human right, and if rapists are executed, that right is violated. That's a right they have that can never be taken away from them.

George Kumah,

Agona Swedru