Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay, National Assembly Member for Old Yundum Constituency
By Buba Gagigo
Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay, National Assembly Member for Old Yundum, has condemned the death of a one-month-old baby girl in Wellingara, reportedly linked to complications from Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). He called for a comprehensive investigation and full accountability for those responsible, stressing the urgent need to protect children’s rights and enforce national laws against the practice.
“It is with profound sorrow and indignation that I address the tragic death of a one-month-old baby girl, allegedly resulting from complications linked to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM),” Hon. Ceesay said.
Describing the incident as both devastating and unacceptable, he said it serves as a painful reminder of the need to safeguard children from harmful practices that strip them of their health, dignity, and future.
“Let me be unequivocal: I am not against religion or culture. I deeply respect the rich traditions and spiritual values that shape our communities. However, I do not and cannot support FGM. Culture must never be used to justify violence, and faith must never be distorted to permit harm. We must stand as citizens to ensure that our laws are upheld and our children are protected,” he said.
Hon. Ceesay emphasized that FGM is banned in The Gambia, making it not only a violation of national law but also a breach of the country’s international obligations. He noted The Gambia’s commitments under global and regional human rights treaties, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, and the Maputo Protocol, which require the elimination of harmful traditional practices and the protection of girls’ rights to bodily integrity, health, and life.
“It is imperative that the authorities conduct a thorough investigation, and if it is confirmed that FGM contributed to the death of this one-month-old girl, accountability must be pursued swiftly and with unwavering integrity. Anyone who continues to practice FGM must be held fully accountable under the law,” he urged.
As both a resident of Wellingara and the constituency’s representative, Hon. Ceesay said he feels a moral duty to speak for the voiceless and defend the most vulnerable members of society.
“The loss of this innocent child must not be forgotten. Let it mark a turning point and a moment for our nation to renew its unwavering commitment to protecting every child’s right to life, safety, and dignity,” he concluded.