The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) says it has engaged in an untiring advocacy to enact appropriate legislations against the harmful practice of cutting/removing female genital.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is among harmful traditional practices which causeindelible injuries that lead to serious health consequences to women and girls.
As AFELL requests support and firm actions to eradicate FGM in Liberia, the Association through its president who made remarks during the just ended assembly of the Liberia National Bar Association, emphasized that more efforts are needed to foster cooperation.
“Mr. President, we listened keenly to the clarity you made concerning FGM. You informed us that the LNBA has not pursued legislations. We believe we are all troubled by the accelerating wave of violence being perpetrated throughout the length and breadth of Liberia, and hasten to add that such practice needs immediately recourse of action,” Atty Williams challenged the Bar.
She revealed and cautioned the government noting, “It is important that we are reminded and mindful, that if we are not careful, as we approach the electoral period, any attempt to encourage violence by our actions and silence, will no doubt plunge us into an unwarranted civil crisis that will take us to a dreadful 20 or more years back. What do we want?”
Meanwhile, AFELL said it has recognized and deeply appreciate the outgoing United States Ambassador Michael McCarthy for promoting human rights and endeavoring to end violence against women and children in Liberia.
“AFELL is saddened by the news of the imminent departure ofAmbassador McCarthy, a servant of the people who has exhibited the highest professional commitment to his mission in Liberia,” Atty Williams conveyed.
Ambassador McCarthy worked with the Executive, Legislature, Judiciary, and Civil Society Organizations to ensure responsible performance and to promote and advance peace and security in our nation.
He is quick to recognize and applaud the government in its achievements and does not hesitate or waver to condemn acts of corruption, violence, and other obstacles that impede and undermine development in Liberia.
“AFELL will definitely miss Ambassador McCarthy for impacting the lives of women and children in Liberia. We trust that your successor, Mark Christopher Toner, when and if confirmed will walk the path of goodwill and assist Liberia,” the organization said through its president.
