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Though it has been fine tuned or coined as ‘Safe Motherhood Act’ it’s the same as Abortion Bill.
What does it mean?
An abortion bill is a proposed or enacted piece of legislation that regulates access to abortion services.
The introduction of abortion bills often sparks debate because they involve complex ethical, moral, and legal questions, and they touch on broader issues such as women’s rights, public health, and religious beliefs.
Therefore, the ongoing debate in Sierra Leone over abortion legislation is one of the most pressing moral, social, and political issues of our time.
The proposed ‘Safe Motherhood Act’ has raised profound concerns that cannot be overlooked.
Here are the critical reasons why this bill should be opposed to protect both individual lives and societal morality at large:
The Sanctity of Life
At the heart of the debate lies the intrinsic value of human life. It’s confirmed by Science (Embryoloy) that life begins at conception. From the moment of fertilization, a unique human life with its DNA is formed, deserving of protection and respect. The proposed bill, however, disregards the rights of the unborn or foetus, treating them as disposable. Laws should protect the most vulnerable members of society, not sanction their destruction.
Religious/Ethical and Moral Implications
Sierra Leone is a country deeply rooted on religion and rich African Culture; and abortion is completely new to us as Sierra Leoneans and Africans generally. The act itself raises profound religious and cultural concerns. Terminating a pregnancy involves the deliberate ending of a human life. Legalizing abortion normalizes a culture that devalues life and undermines the moral fabric of society. Upholding the right to life reflects a commitment to compassion and human dignity.
Potential for Abuse and Exploitation is an other odd aspect of this proposed bill.
If it becomes a law, it could open the door to misuse. Evidence from countries with liberal abortion laws shows that such policies can be exploited, leading to abortions based on gender, disabilities, or other discriminatory reasons. This sets a dangerous precedent, threatening equality and justice.
Psychological and Emotional Impact
Abortion is not a consequence-free decision. Many women who undergo abortions experience long-term emotional and psychological effects, including guilt, depression, and anxiety. Rather than supporting women, this bill could leave them to grapple with these issues alone.
Our laws as a country should focus on providing comprehensive support for women facing unplanned pregnancies, including counseling, healthcare, and more.
Undermining Parental and Societal Roles is another side effect
This bill could potentially erode parental rights and societal accountability by enabling minors to access abortion without parental consent. Society thrives when families are strong, and parents are involved in guiding their children through critical life decisions.
Alternatives to Abortion
Modern society offers alternatives to abortion that affirm both the dignity of women and the unborn. Adoption provides a solution for women unable to raise a child while giving families the joy of parenting. Government of Sierra Leone should invest in programs that support pregnant women, ensure access to healthcare, and empower them with options to choose life.
A Call to Protect Life
The Abortion Bill is not just a legal issue but a moral one with far-reaching consequences for individuals and society.
Upholding the sanctity of life is the foundation of a just and humane society. Instead of enacting this bill, lawmakers should focus on policies that protect the unborn, support women, and promote life-affirming solutions.
I’m certain that, our lawmakers are either Muslims or Christians; and both the Quran and Bible are against abortion.
Let’s say our legislators are lured by political sentiments or partisanship and decided to pass this bill in parliament. Presidential assent is the last stage where a bill can become a law or otherwise. Therefore, I solemnly entreat Julius Maada Bio not to give it Presidential Assent.
I’m certain that he’s a Catholic Christian and the church of which he’s a fervent member boldly condemns abortion.
I urge citizens especially religious leaders to stand against this bill and advocate for laws that respect life and provide true care for women and families.
Let us choose a path that reflects our highest values: compassion, dignity, and unwavering commitment to life. The
The sanctity of life is fundamental in Islam. The Qur’an states:
“Whoever kills a soul… it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had sav
ed mankind entirely.” (Qur’an 5:32)
Abortion must not be legal in Sierra Leone. Be warm Bio government , Don’t mess up our nation and put women life on Risk 😔.
No evil law like Abortion law must be pass in Sierra Leone.
God blessed you
Maybe someone will say my write up is insulting, but to my opinion it is the fact. It seems that our lawmakers don’t have any thing reasonable to debate on, or they’re idle. But yet there are so many relevance issues to debate on for the betterment of this country. They tried the same bill during Ernest Koroma’s time it didn’t work why still on it?
Debate on issues like poor value of education, injustice, limitless poverty dealing with people etc.in this country. Not something that is not God acceptable and even our culture.