Judge warns law will act firmly on behalf domestic violence victims

The court also used the occasion to address the wider issue of domestic abuse in society. Justice Jaiteh described domestic violence as a serious problem that often occurs behind closed doors, where victims suffer in silence. “Domestic violence is a scourge upon society. It destroys lives, devastates families, traumatizes children, and undermines the very foundation upon which healthy communities are built,” the judge said. The court noted that victims are often unable to protect themselves, stressing that the law must act firmly on their behalf. “Far too often, domestic violence occurs behind closed doors where victims suffer in silence. The law must speak firmly on behalf of those who are vulnerable and unable to protect themselves,” Justice Jaiteh stated. The judge further explained that violence within domestic relationships is particularly serious because it involves a breach of trust and security between partners. Citing this principle, the court made a firm declaration on the rights of women in relationships: “A spouse is not property. A spouse is not a servant. A spouse is not an object to be controlled through threats, intimidation, coercion, or violence.” The court emphasized that every woman has the right to live free from fear, abuse, degradation and violence. Justice Jaiteh also highlighted warning signs that often precede serious domestic violence, including persistent threats, possessiveness, coercive control, intimidation, economic abuse, isolation, repeated assaults and threats to kill. “These are not signs of love. They are signs of danger,” the court warned. Women were urged not to ignore repeated threats or dismiss them as anger or empty words, with the judge noting that such behavior can escalate into serious harm. The court further cautioned that in many cases, domestic violence escalates from threats to severe injury and, in some instances, death. Justice Jaiteh called on families, neighbors, religious leaders, community leaders and law enforcement agencies to take early warning signs seriously and respond promptly. While acknowledging that the law can punish offenders after the fact, the court stressed that preventing domestic violence requires the involvement of society as a whole. In conclusion, the judge reaffirmed the rights of women, stating that: “Every woman has the right to dignity. Every woman has the right to safety. Every woman has the right to live free from violence.” The court added that it would continue to uphold those rights firmly and without hesitation.