By Alhaji Haruna Sani
The Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRCSL) has reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing dialogue with the government over the controversial Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill.
Speaking at a press conference, the council clarified that it is not in conflict with the government, contrary to perceptions in some quarters.
The council revealed that when the Bill was introduced in Parliament, it submitted a position paper outlining its concerns. In response, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS), through the Parliamentary Legislative Committee, presented proposed amendments addressing the contentious areas highlighted by the IRCSL.
The council is currently reviewing those proposed modifications and plans to provide feedback soon. This approach, they emphasized, demonstrates their intention to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure the final law aligns with the country’s moral and religious values while promoting safe motherhood and reproductive health care.
Dispelling rumors of hostility, the IRCSL underscored its dedication to constructive dialogue. “Contrary to the perception in some quarters that IRCSL and its collaborators are at war with the Government, we intend to continue the dialogue with those responsible for the Bill,” the council stated.
Their ultimate goal, they stressed, is to develop legislation that balances the sacredness of human life with the religious and moral values cherished by Sierra Leoneans.
The council also highlighted the importance of respectful and reasonable civic engagement in strengthening democracy. They expressed optimism that the proposed amendments have addressed most, if not all, of their concerns and called on religious leaders and moral guarantors to remain committed to finding common ground.
As the nation awaits the IRCSL’s formal response to the proposed amendments, stakeholders hope the ongoing dialogue will foster consensus. The government, religious leaders, and other interested parties are all working towards a law that supports safe motherhood while respecting the cultural and ethical framework of Sierra Leone.
