Nams Push for Matrimonial Legislation



Time to commend the sisters in the NAM.

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The Daily Observer (Banjul)

March 26, 2003
Posted to the web March 26, 2003

Pa Malick Faye
Banjul

Some female members of the National Assembly have tabled a matrimonial
legislation which they say will help safeguard the womenfolk who are
normally disadvantaged in their matrimonial homes.

Speaking on the adjournment debate last week Duta Kamaso, Member for Wuli
West, said the new legislation if agreed upon, will help the womenfolk in
their marriages for they have been on the disadvantaged side for a long
time.


"This does not mean that we are gender bias or that we are trying to bring
in a law to defy our husbands but it is all about empowering women in their
matrimonial homes.

"We respect the menfolk and we will accord them their dues but I think women
are suffering in their marriages and they need help," she said.

Fatoumata Jahumpa Ceesay, Nominated Member, said the proposed legislation is
necessary and described it as "overdue." "I think we need protection in our
marriages because most of the time we are disadvantaged. This law will
protect both parties and will help promote matrimonial harmony. I only hope
that the men will not see this as a challenge to their authority," she
posited.

Ndey Njie, Member for Lower Saloum, said: "this bill should be supported by
all sides in the Assembly because it will safeguard our marriages for good.

Many women are left in dilemma after divorce and if there is such a
legislation, it will make men start to rethink their actions before taking
unfair decisions during divorce." Khalifa Kambi, Member for Kiang West,
disagreed with the women parliamentarians stance describing the proposed
legislation as "unnecessary and not in the interest of matrimonial harmony.
I think we should do away with such a legislation and continue with our
traditional practices regarding matrimonial issues." Mr Kambi's remarks did
not auger well for Duta Kamaso, Member for Wuli West, who reminded him of
the long suffering of Gambian women who now need solace.



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