Stiff penalties needed to stem the rising cases of bestiality

In recent past, there has been rising cases of bestiality in different parts of the country. Bestiality is having sexual intercourse with an animal. From time immemorial bestiality has been common among herdsmen involving sheep, goats and cows. But this has now become the order of the day with other animals like dogs, fish and even chicken.

According to Kenya‘s penal code chapter 63 of the laws of Kenya section 162(b), bestiality is a crime and one can be imprisoned for 14 years if found guilty.

Where did the rain start beating us? Based on research it is worth noting that most people who practice bestiality suffer from mental disorder.

Some of the factors that may trigger bestiality are use of narcotics and western influence mainly through the Internet. Existence of weak laws that protect animals is another factor that has seen an increase in cases of bestiality. Denis Diderot was once quoted saying‚ the law there lies a sole barrier towards the passion of men.‘ What he meant is should there be no limitations in the freedom to act on our passions, this world would be chaotic. Current the law looks at bestiality in one dimension, having carnal knowledge of the animal, this leaves room for culprits to exploit loopholes in the law. The law should also provide for penalties for zoophilic pornography.

Stiff penalties should be put in place to act as a deterrent.