By Rose Aba Akafo
The action by the country’s Human Rights Commission (HRCSL) came after parliament issued a statement saying that the recently passed Child Rights Bill does not outlaw female genital mutilation (FGM) for girls below 18.
The commission said this is deeply troubling and disappointing, arguing that the law ought to make strict prohibitions on FGM because minors are not legally capable of giving informed consent to have their clitoris cut off. It said this omission by lawmakers is a missed opportunity to protect girls from a practice widely condemned for causing long-term physical and psychological harm.
“The commission is gravely concerned that this legislative gap leaves girls vulnerable to harmful traditional practices,” their statement reads. It adds, “We urge the president to return the bill to parliament for amendment to ensure that the rights and safety of girls are clearly and unequivocally protected.”
HRCSL maintains that the bill, as it stands, fails to meet basic human rights standards regarding the protection of girls. It said Sierra Leone must take a firm and unequivocal stance against FGM.
The final decision now lies with President Bio, who must determine whether to assent to the bill in its current form or send it back to parliament for revision.