Witchcraft accusation 

My mother is an elderly woman who lives alone. Last week, after a dispute with a neighbour over the boundary of their land, the neighbour’s animals became ill, and a child had seizures. Now, villagers are accusing my mother of witchcraft, and they have even assaulted her, burned the house she was living in, and forced her to flee to town to stay with me. I seek justice on her behalf. Can I take legal action?
ZK, Shinyanga

Yes, you can. Section 4 of the Witchcraft Act, Cap. 18 [R.E. 2023], strictly prohibits accusing others of witchcraft. Further, regardless of personal beliefs, assault causing bodily harm and arson are serious crimes under sections 241 and 319 of the Penal Code Cap. [R. E. 2023]. We understand this situation may be distressing, and we encourage you to seek legal advice. You have the right to file a criminal complaint for any violence experienced and to pursue civil action for defamation if your mother’s reputation has been harmed. The law is in place to protect all individuals from superstition-based violence. We sincerely hope your mother and the neighbour can resolve this matter amicably. Please consider consulting a lawyer for further guidance.