The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the tragic death of Princess Zou, a young woman whose life was brutally cut short in an alleged act of gender-based violence (GBV).
The incident, reportedly involving a trusted spiritual leader, has shocked the nation and intensified calls for urgent action against the rising cases of GBV across Liberia.
The Ministry highlighted the global scale of gender-based violence, citing United Nations data that revealed that nearly one in three women and girls worldwide experience physical or sexual violence during their lifetime.
The Ministry said this heartbreaking tragedy underscores the urgent need for systemic changes and heightened vigilance to address GBV in Liberia, particularly as cases continue to rise in Montserrado County.
Gender Minister Gbeme Horace-Kollie who strongly condemned the brutal killing and emphasized the need for immediate and sustained action saying, “This tragic loss is a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen our systems and communities to protect women and girls. We cannot continue to lose precious lives to acts of senseless violence.”
The Ministry emphasized how it remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring justice for Princess and all victims of gender-based violence while intensifying efforts to promote massive awareness on the need for a safer environment for every woman and girl in Liberia.
Minister Horace-Kollie described the incident as a barbaric violation of trust and human rights, highlighting the disturbing reality of authority figures abusing their positions to harm those they are meant to guide and protect.
The Ministry’s social workers are actively providing psychosocial support and counseling to Princess’ family, ensuring they receive the care and assistance needed during this deeply distressing time.
The Ministry called for transparent and swift legal proceedings to ensure justice is served for Princess Zou and to send a clear message that such heinous acts will not go unpunished.
The Ministry emphasized the need for: Strengthened legal frameworks to address GBV effectively and to enhance community engagement and awareness campaigns to combat societal norms enabling violence.
Active participation of stakeholders, including faith-based organizations, grassroots groups, and civil society organizations, in creating a culture of safety and accountability.
The Ministry urged communities, faith leaders, civil society organizations, and government agencies to take a firm stand against gender-based violence.
“Let Princess Zou’s death not be in vain. Let it serve as a catalyst for change a rallying cry for every Liberian to stand united against gender-based violence and work tirelessly to create a society where such tragedies are no longer tolerated,” the Ministry concluded.
The Ministry called on every Liberian to stand together, fight against gender-based violence, and ensure that no woman or girl lives in fear of violence or injustice.
