DAR ES SALAAM, Jan. 5 -- THERE is a stubborn myth that the family home is always a sanctuary. It is comforting, like believing vegetables cancel out dessert. Yet the evidence keeps knocking: Too often, abuse happens where trust lives.

When parents and guardians choose silence to “keep peace,” they do not keep peace; they keep predators. This editorial is a blunt appeal to all in the society to stop shielding family members who sexually molest and abuse children and to start shielding children with truth, law and courage.

Let us be clear. Love does not grant legal immunity. Blood ties do not dissolve criminal responsibility. When adults hide abusers because they are uncles, cousins, step-parents, or respected elders, they bec...