Human rights lawyer Basita Michael has called on Parliament to include a clear ban on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the new Child Rights Act, 2024.
In an official letter addressed to the Honourable Speaker and Members of Parliament, she urged lawmakers to pass the bill with strong protections for children, especially girls at risk of FGM.
The Child Rights Act, 2024, is expected to replace the 2007 version and bring Sierra Leone’s laws in line with international agreements. But the latest version of the bill has removed terms like “female genital cutting” and “harmful practices,” which were part of earlier drafts.
Michael said leaving out these words weakens the bill and could leave girls unprotected. She asked MPs to bring back clear language that bans all forms of violence, including FGM.
“The Bill must clearly state that no child should be subjected to physical violence, torture, or cruel and degrading treatment, including practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), except where medically necessary,” she wrote.
FGM is still common in Sierra Leone and often takes place as part of traditional initiation ceremonies. Many young girls in rural areas face pressure to undergo the practice.
Michael warned that passing the Child Rights Act without a direct ban on FGM would go against Sierra Leone’s promises under both international and African agreements. She said the new law is a chance to protect children and show strong national leadership.
She said banning FGM is not about rejecting tradition, but about keeping children safe in a way that shows care, dignity, and kindness.
Parliament is expected to consider the final version of the bill soon. Advocates say the decision could shape the future of child protection in Sierra Leone.
They even died in the process and nothing is done about it, that is witchcraft and blood sucking beast, wicked traditions that has destroys great women.