The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has called on President Julius Maada Bio to withhold assent to the recently passed Child Rights Act, 2025, citing its failure to protect girls under 18 from Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The Commission issued a press release Monday expressing deep disappointment over a statement from Parliament denying that the new law criminalizes FGM or imposes penalties for the circumcision of minors. The parliamentary disclaimer, published the same day, clarified that the law contains no provisions penalizing those who subject girls to the practice.
HRCSL Vice Chairperson, Victor Idrissa Lansana Esq., described the development as troubling and a missed opportunity to end what the Commission calls a “historical injustice” against children.
“The Commission finds this development very troubling and feels disappointed that underaged girls will still continue to be subjected to cruel and inhumane treatment under the guise of cultural practices,” the statement reads.
During the drafting of the legislation, HRCSL submitted a formal position paper to Parliament, urging lawmakers to include clear protections against FGM for girls under 18. The Commission argued that children cannot give legal consent to such procedures and that the practice amounts to cruel treatment, with reported cases of severe injury and even death.
“This was a moment for Parliament to act boldly and correct a longstanding violation against vulnerable children,” the Commission said. “But alas, those who represent the people believe differently.”
In light of Parliament’s admission that the new Child Rights Act offers no safeguard against FGM, the HRCSL is now appealing directly to the President to send the bill back for amendment. The Commission is urging the inclusion of a specific clause that exempts all girls under 18 from undergoing FGM under any circumstances.
“We believe that this will further protect our children and create a safe environment for their growth and wellbeing,” the Commission stated.
The HRCSL reaffirmed its commitment to promoting and defending the rights of all citizens, adding that it will continue to monitor the legislative process closely.
The public intervention by the Commission adds pressure to a growing national conversation about FGM and the responsibilities of lawmakers in protecting minors from harmful traditional practices.
