Islamic Edict: 80 Lashes for FGM Offenders Sends Strong Message

Muslim leaders in the Ashanti Region have issued a strong warning to families of their faith, urging them to avoid spreading false teachings that contribute to harmful cultural traditions like child marriages and female genital cutting.

Speaking at an intergenerational colloquium organized by Civil Society Organization Curious Minds Ghana, Ustaz Burhanudeen Babal-Waiz, the Deputy Secretary of the council of Ulama in the office of the Ashanti Regional Chief Imam, emphasized that Islamic teachings vehemently oppose these practices. He highlighted that Islamic law prescribes a severe punishment of 80 lashes for those involved in female genital cutting, demonstrating the faith's strong condemnation of such actions.

Ustaz Burhanudeen Babal-Waiz challenged a widespread belief that the holy Prophet Mohammed married a nine-year-old as his last wife, stressing that individuals who marry minors will face legal consequences, with cases referred to the authorities for prosecution.

Despite efforts to raise awareness about the harms of these practices, female genital cutting persists, particularly among northern tribes in the Upper East and Upper West Regions. Additionally, gender-based violence and child marriages remain prevalent, with a concerning percentage of girls marrying before the age of 18.

Chief Corporal Bright Anim from the Ashanti Region's Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit highlighted ongoing efforts to rescue girls from families pushing them into early marriages. Curious Minds Ghana's PRINCE Kofi Bonney urged youth to join the fight against these practices, noting that diverting resources to address their effects hinders overall development.

The colloquium, themed "Building a better Ghana, eliminating harmful practices towards sustainable Development," saw the participation of students, governmental organizations, and traditional authorities. The latter vowed to contribute to creating safer communities that discourage harmful traditions, further emphasizing the collective effort needed to eradicate such practices.

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