The Gambia has delayed making a decision on whether to reverse the ban on female genital mutilation (FGM) for three months due to calls from MPs for further discussions and consultations.
Eight years ago, the country passed a law that made FGM illegal and can result in a prison sentence of up to three years.
On Monday, numerous individuals gathered outside the parliament to protest, with the majority advocating for the abolishment of the ban, as reported by Agence France-Presse.
Based on the health survey of the nation, three-fourths of women aged 15 to 49 have experienced FGM. Supporters against FGM are concerned that the suggested legislation may reverse the progress made over the years.
According to Jaha Dukureh, the creator of a group called Safe Hands for Girls which works against FGM, it was extremely heartbreaking to witness men disregarding our struggles and minimizing our suffering as mere western influence.
“The legislation was referred to a committee, which has both potential benefits and drawbacks. The positive outcome from today’s proceedings is that the practice of FGM remains prohibited in the Gambia. However, referring the bill to committee does allow for more time, but also means that the issue of genital mutilation may still be under discussion in my home country in 2024.”
The bill will undergo a three-month examination by a parliamentary committee before being brought back to parliament for discussion and voting.
MP Almameh Gibba presented a bill to parliament to overturn the existing ban, stating that it would protect religious loyalty and preserve cultural traditions. Critics argue that the ban is against Islamic principles, while advocates against FGM assert that the practice is not supported by the Qur’an.
Before the decision on Monday, Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie, the special rapporteur on women’s rights in Africa for the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, expressed her worries that repealing the FGM law could lead to potential repeal of laws regarding early and forced marriage.
Sallah-Njie, a native of the Gambia, expressed the importance of civil society being actively engaged and strongly advocating. We must rely on this hope.
Source: theguardian.com
