Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In a pivotal session of the parliament on Monday, the Women (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which sought to repeal the ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), was decisively rejected. The bill, introduced by Hon. Almameh Gibba, representing Foni Kansala, faced staunch opposition during the consideration stage. The final vote saw 34 parliamentarians against repealing the ban, 19 in support, and zero abstentions.

Speaker Fakaray Tombong Jatta played a crucial role in the outcome, invoking specific standing orders to prevent the bill from advancing to the third reading. “I’m following assembly circumstances and we need my ruling now,” Speaker Jatta declared, referencing Order 72.19 and Order 8.1 of the Standing Orders. He emphasized that allowing the bill to proceed without its clauses would be futile and unprecedented.

Speaker Jatta explained, “The rule that the Women’s Amendment Bill 2024, having gone through the Consideration Stage with all the clauses voted down, is hereby deemed rejected and negative. This ruling is appropriate, as the Assembly cannot be engaged in such a futile exercise as to allow the bill to proceed to third reading without its clauses.”

The decision was met with relief from advocates against FGM, who viewed the parliament’s stance as a significant victory in protecting women’s rights and health. The rejection of all amendment clauses, followed by the Speaker’s decisive ruling, ensures that the ban on FGM remains intact, reflecting a continued commitment to combating this harmful practice.

As the legislative process for the bill concludes, the debate around FGM is expected to persist, highlighting ongoing efforts to address gender-based violence and uphold women’s rights in the country.