Madam,
The headline ‘Woman arrested for lying about rape’ published in the Times of Eswatini immediately caught my attention and prompted me to read the article in depth. After carefully going through the details of the story, I am left feeling confused, disturbed and concerned about how this matter has been presented and understood.
I believe it is important to raise awareness and encourage deeper discussion on this issue, particularly around the concept of consent. Let me be clear from the outset: It is wrong and unacceptable for anyone to deliberately lie about rape, as such actions undermine the credibility of genuine survivors and obstruct justice. However, the facts presented in this particular case raise serious questions that, in my view, should not be ignored or dismissed so easily. According to the article, the man and the woman initially agreed to have sexual intercourse.
However, during the act, the woman reportedly complained that it was painful and uncomfortable. Despite expressing this clearly, the man did not stop. This is the point where the story becomes troubling. Consent is not a one-time agreement; it is ongoing and can be withdrawn at any moment. When a person says they are in pain, uncomfortable, or wants the act to stop, continuing regardless of that request is a violation. What further concerns me is that the woman reportedly ended up pushing off a table, damaging her boyfriend’s television, in an apparent attempt to free herself from the situation. This action suggests distress and desperation rather than malicious intent. Additionally, she was allegedly called immature for crying. Crying in such a moment should not be dismissed as immaturity; it is a natural reaction to pain, fear and emotional trauma. It is also important to consider why the woman felt the need to call the police. From the details provided, it appears that she felt unheard, disrespected, and violated. When someone repeatedly expresses discomfort and is ignored, feelings of helplessness can escalate. In such circumstances, seeking help from authorities may feel like the only available option.
This leads me to ask an important question: If a person continues with sexual activity after being clearly told to stop because it is painful, does that not amount to rape? Even where there was initial consent, continuing against someone’s expressed wishes changes the nature of the act entirely. Consent without the freedom to withdraw is not true consent. Cases like this highlight a broader societal issue the lack of understanding about consent and sexual rights. We need to educate ourselves and others that ‘no,’ ‘stop,’ or ‘this hurts’ are not suggestions; they are boundaries that must be respected immediately. Failure to listen and respond appropriately can cause physical, emotional, and psychological harm. While the law must take its course, public discourse should be balanced and sensitive. Headlines and narratives should not discourage survivors from speaking out or seeking help. Instead, they should encourage accountability, education, and respectful dialogue about sexual relationships and consent. I believe this case should serve as an opportunity for national reflection and awareness. Listening, empathy and respect are fundamental in any intimate relationship. No one deserves to be ignored when they are in pain.
The headline ‘Woman arrested for lying about rape’ published in the Times of Eswatini immediately caught my attention and prompted me to read the article in depth.
