The Parliament of Sierra Leone is deliberating on a landmark bill that could grant women the autonomy to make decisions about their reproductive health, including the right to terminate pregnancies.

Titled “The Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Act, 2024,” the proposed legislation, introduced by the Deputy Minister of Health, has reignited national debate over women’s rights and societal values.

The bill was tabled during Tuesday’s parliamentary session and has since undergone its first and second readings. It has been referred to the Legislative Committee for further scrutiny, with the committee seeking position papers from individuals and organizations for consideration. Submissions should be addressed to the Chairman of the Legislative Committee at the Parliament Building in Freetown.

The renewed push for reproductive rights comes after a similar effort in the administration of former President Ernest Bai Koroma failed. Although the bill was passed by Parliament at the time, Koroma refused to give his presidential assent, citing religious and cultural concerns.

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“The delay then reflected deep societal resistance to the notion of bodily autonomy for women,” said Chernor Bah of the Africanist Press. Advocates argue that the current debate could mark a turning point for women’s rights in Sierra Leone, though significant opposition is anticipated from religious and cultural groups.

Parliament has notified the public that the Legislative Committee will convene on Wednesday to discuss the bill further. The meeting will take place in Committee Room One immediately after the main parliamentary sitting.

This development signals a critical moment for Sierra Leone as lawmakers and citizens navigate a complex intersection of tradition, religion, and modern views on reproductive health.