The arrest of a man for allegedly raping his wife has started debates about marriage consent in Namibia. People argue whether rape can happen between married partners. Some leaders claim marriages mean always saying yes to sex with each other. Others believe forcing someone into sex remains wrong, even between husband and wife.
Traditional leader Andrew Naikaku said marriage rape breaks traditions and laws. He thinks couples need to talk about sex together. Another leader, Tjizapouzeu Uahupirapi, believes spouses agree to satisfy each other forever through marriage. He says rape happens only after couples separate.
Human rights activist Rosa Namises points out that marriage often creates power differences where men control women. She explains that Namibian laws protect women from forced sex in marriages. The Combating of Rape Act clearly states marriage cannot defend someone against rape charges. These legal protections exist because women deserve respect.
Bishop Lucas Katenda says men who force their wives misunderstand marriage's purposes. Marriage aims for care, companionship, and raising families, not control. Men's conference founder Fillemon Amoolongo agrees that marriage never allows someone to violate their partner's body. Both leaders encourage men to learn more about consent.
Traditional leader Andrew Naikaku said marriage rape breaks traditions and laws. He thinks couples need to talk about sex together. Another leader, Tjizapouzeu Uahupirapi, believes spouses agree to satisfy each other forever through marriage. He says rape happens only after couples separate.
Human rights activist Rosa Namises points out that marriage often creates power differences where men control women. She explains that Namibian laws protect women from forced sex in marriages. The Combating of Rape Act clearly states marriage cannot defend someone against rape charges. These legal protections exist because women deserve respect.
Bishop Lucas Katenda says men who force their wives misunderstand marriage's purposes. Marriage aims for care, companionship, and raising families, not control. Men's conference founder Fillemon Amoolongo agrees that marriage never allows someone to violate their partner's body. Both leaders encourage men to learn more about consent.
