Minister Vows Crackdown on Child Abuse

Youth Empowerment Minister Tino Machakaire declared war on child abuse, vowing that anyone violating children’s rights will face the full force of the law, the Daily News reported. The announcement comes amid a spike in reported cases of sexual violence and neglect, but child protection groups warn that previous tough talk has not translated into action. The justice system is plagued by case backlogs, corruption, and a lack of forensic capacity, leaving victims without redress. Activists remain skeptical of the minister’s pledge, citing a history of impunity for perpetrators. Machakaire’s campaign will collide with the reality of a state that has historically failed to protect its most vulnerable citizens, where impunity is the norm and resources are scarce.