Ammon News - AMMONNEWS - The government on Sunday endorsed a draft law amending the penal code and specifically scrapping article 308 of the law, which spared rapists legal prosecution if they marry their victims and remain married for three years (in misdemeanour convictions) or five years (criminal convictions).

The cabinet's move comes as part of recommendations put forward by a royal committee tasked with developing the judiciary and upholding the rule of law. Other proposed amendments to the penal code introduce stiffer penalties against public money abuse and the so-called "festive firing".

The draft law also stiffens penalties against sports riots, protests, forging official papers, violations of water resources and assaults against women and disabled children.