By Fiona Benson
The House of Representatives Committee on Gender said it members will conduct a thorough review of the draft bill seeking to ban cultural practices, including Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The Committee is chaired by Bong County Electoral District #6, Representative Moima Briggs-Mensah, who endured the practice at ‘infancy.’
The House commitment follows recent decision by the Plenary to forward the draft Act seeking to ban ‘harmful’ cultural practices.
The Bill was submitted by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to the Committee on Gender to scrutinize it and makes recommendations.
Madam Mensah said members of the Committee will ensure a comprehensive and transparent examination of the Bill so that citizens fully understand its intent and significance once enacted.
“We will do everything possible to properly scrutinize this draft Bill,” Rep. Mensah stated, noting: “It is important that our people understand the purpose and benefits of this legislation, which seeks to protect the rights, dignity, and well-being of women and girls.”
The proposed legislation aligns with government ongoing efforts to eliminate gender-based violence, and promote equality in line with national and international human rights commitments.
The Committee on Gender is expected to consult with key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and women’s rights advocates, to ensure the Bill reflects both cultural sensitivities, and the urgent need to safeguard citizens from “harmful practices.”
On Thursday, October 23, Pres. Boakai submitted to the Plenary the Bill seeking to ban all traditional harmful culture practices.
Shortly the Bill was submitted, the House went into uproars with lawmakers being divided on opinions.
The Bill is expected to be reviewed by the Committee on Gender and Internal Affairs to report in the next two weeks.
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