By Awoko Publications
FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE – The Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill, which had been eagerly anticipated by campaigners, has encountered another setback in Sierra Leone’s parliament, following protests from prominent members of the clergy.
On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, the bill, introduced by Deputy Minister of Health Jalikatu Mustapha, was tabled before the House of Parliament for its first reading. However, the reading was immediately followed by strong objections from religious leaders, including Rev. Francis A. M. Mam and Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly, who voiced their opposition to the proposed legislation.
In response to these protests and to allow for further consultation, Speaker of Parliament Hon. Sengepoh Solomon Thomas ruled that the bill be committed to the committee stage for more in-depth review. He urged all stakeholders, including the clergy and other concerned parties, to submit position papers and attend the committee hearings to present their views on the bill.
“While we will not debate the bill in full today, we will ensure that all parties with a vested interest are heard during the committee stage,” Speaker Thomas said, emphasizing the importance of inclusive dialogue on the issue.
The bill, which seeks to improve maternal health and reproductive rights in Sierra Leone, has sparked a national debate, particularly concerning certain provisions that some religious and cultural leaders believe may conflict with traditional values. Immediately after the first reading, Deputy Minister Mustapha had urged lawmakers to “be on the right side of history” and support the bill’s passage, stressing its potential to improve the health and well-being of women in the country.
However, the Speaker’s decision to delay the debate and refer the bill to the committee stage was met with mixed reactions from lawmakers.
Hon. Sahr Matthew Nyuma, the Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, reminded his colleagues not to allow emotions to drive the legislative process. “We should not make laws with emotions,” he cautioned, urging MPs to approach the bill with a clear and rational mindset.
Meanwhile, Hon. Rebecca Yei Sam, a member of the Rulling SLPP, brought a religious perspective to the discussion, asserting that while it is important to adhere to the constitution, “the greatest law is God’s word, which supersedes all human law.” Quoting from Deuteronomy 30:19, she urged lawmakers to consider the moral and spiritual implications of the bill.
“The greatest law is God’s word, and it calls us to choose life,” she said, referencing the biblical passage, which calls for the choice of life over death.
Despite the protests and emotional exchanges, Deputy Speaker Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh clarified that the decision to refer the bill to the committee stage was purely procedural and not influenced by the protests in the gallery. “The consultations and committee hearings are an important part of our parliamentary procedure,” he said, stressing that they are not legally binding but are meant to ensure thorough discussion and analysis of the bill.
Hon. Abdul Kargbo of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) urged the protesters, who were present in both the upper and lower galleries of the House, to remain patient and allow the parliamentary process to proceed without disruption. “The House is here to represent you,” he said, appealing for peace and decorum. He also urged MPs to approach the bill with an open mind, recognizing that the outcome of the consultations could lead to changes in the proposed legislation.
“Let us face this bill with clear minds and an open heart, because the outcome could change as a result of the consultations,” Kargbo asserted.
In closing, Speaker Thomas reminded the MPs of their duty to represent the people of Sierra Leone, stating that personal biases and feelings should not influence their decision-making. “We are here to represent the people of Sierra Leone. When it comes to representation, your personal feelings do not matter,” he said.
The Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill remains a contentious issue, with strong opinions on both sides. As the bill moves into the committee stage, it is clear that continued consultations will be crucial in determining its future and the eventual outcome of its passage through Parliament.
