Leaders of the National Association of the Kpelle and Kpelle-Speaking People have formally petitioned the House of Representatives, urging lawmakers to reject President Joseph Boakai’s proposed legislation seeking to abolish harmful cultural practices, most notably Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), within the Sande Society.
In their petition, the group argues that eliminating FGM would effectively dismantle the Sande Society itself, a move they say would erase a cornerstone of Liberia’s cultural identity. They maintain that for generations, the Sande has served as a space for moral upbringing, cultural transmission, and guidance for young women and girls.
The petition further compares the Sande’s cultural protection to the legal recognition given to the Masonic Craft, which they describe as a foreign institution. According to the leaders, if such an organization can enjoy respect under the law, then an indigenous tradition like the Sande deserves even stronger protection.
Citing Article 5(b) of the Liberian Constitution, which mandates the State to preserve and promote positive Liberian culture, the group insists that lawmakers are constitutionally obligated to safeguard traditional institutions. They call on the Legislature to resist any effort that could lead to the Sande Society’s dissolution.
Instead of a blanket ban, the petitioners recommend dialogue, reform, and collaboration with traditional communities to ensure cultural practices evolve in ways that uphold human dignity and comply with national laws.
President Boakai recently introduced the bill titled “An Act to Ban Harmful Cultural Practices in Liberia,” aimed at eliminating customs deemed dangerous to the rights, health, and safety of Liberians, particularly women and children. The administration says the proposed law is intended to bring Liberia in line with international human rights standards.
The debate now rests with lawmakers, who must decide how to balance cultural preservation with the need to protect citizens from harmful practices.
Source: Spoon TV
