Minister Praises SLPP and APC MPs for Combating Child Marriage in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, celebrated what he described as a “historic moment” following the collaborative efforts of two female Members of Parliament. Hon. Mariama Konneh Zombo from the ruling SLPP and Hon. Catherine Zainab Tarawally from the opposition APC joined forces, supported by First Lady Fatima Bio, to spearhead the drafting and passage of groundbreaking legislation. This new law prohibits all forms of child marriage and child cohabitation, imposing penalties on those involved in planning, supporting, or participating in such practices.
Minister Bah commended the bipartisan cooperation, lauding it as “a testament to a Sierra Leone that everyone can take pride in and strive to build.” The announcement was greeted with acclaim from feminist activist Josephine Kamara of Purposeful, who urged caregivers to remain vigilant against child abuse and safeguard girls from Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C).
Highlighting the inclusive approach to drafting the legislation, Minister Bah emphasized that discussions were conducted in language accessible to at least 90% of the population. He welcomed inquiries from journalists and citizens nationwide, underscoring the transparency and broad participation in the legislative process.
In conclusion, Minister Bah issued a rallying cry for all Sierra Leoneans to unite in safeguarding progress and promoting positive societal norms across all sectors.
