MPs want law against female genital mutilation

By Paul Kiwuuwa

MEMBERS of Parliament on the Equal Opportunities Committee want to enact a law against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

While discussing a report on their work plan for this financial year, the committee chaired by Jalia Bintu yesterday said FGM undermined women.

The committee will this month go on a fact-finding mission to Kapchorwa district to consult the Sabiny, who practice FGM.
Bintu said, “We want to visit elders of Kapchorwa district to consult them and show them the effects of FGM to the women, before we enact the bill.”

“We need laws that support affirmative action and to identify cultures against the welfare of women, such as FGM, widow inheritance and refusal of women to inherit property,” she said.

They will also conduct a survey in government bodies on discrimination against women, youth and persons with disability in employment.

Rose Iriama said, “We need to get rid of the excuse of lack of experience in civil service beca-use many qualified university people lack jobs.”