Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-11 09:37:00
Abdoulie Ceesay, the National Assembly Member for Old Yundum, recently spoke out about the threats he has received regarding his stance on a proposed bill to repeal the anti-FGM law. Ceesay believes that the law should be maintained, as repealing it would hinder the progress of the country. However, this opinion has led to him facing threats of violence and arson.
In an interview with The Standard, Ceesay recounted the events that unfolded after he shared his views on FGM. He explained that someone sent him a TikTok video that featured his image alongside Imam Fatty speaking out against those who opposed repealing the bill. Ceesay expressed his disdain for the video, stating that he felt offended by the implication. Shortly after this incident, he received a barrage of insulting calls from individuals who disagreed with his stance. The insults were not only directed at him but also extended to his mother, prompting Ceesay to reject the calls.
As the harassment continued, the perpetrators shifted their tactics and began sending threatening messages to Ceesay through a WhatsApp group created specifically for him. He discovered that his phone number had been shared with Arabic school students, who issued menacing warnings, including threats to set his house on fire if he continued advocating for the maintenance of the anti-FGM law. Despite the intimidating nature of these threats, Ceesay remains undeterred, emphasizing that he is not afraid because he believes in the righteousness of his cause. He stated, “Even if I die, I know I would die on a genuine cause.”
It is deeply concerning to see a public servant being subjected to such vile attacks simply for expressing his opinion on an important issue like FGM. Threats of violence and arson are unacceptable means of dealing with disagreements and have no place in a democratic society. It is crucial for individuals to engage in civil discourse and respect differing viewpoints, rather than resorting to intimidation and harassment.
Ceesay’s courage in the face of adversity serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of opposition. The protection of human rights, including the rights of women and girls, must be prioritized, and efforts to combat harmful practices like FGM should be supported rather than undermined. As a society, we must condemn all forms of violence and intimidation and work towards fostering a culture of tolerance and respect for diverse opinions. Abdoulie Ceesay’s determination to uphold his convictions in the face of adversity is commendable and serves as an inspiration for others to speak out against injustice.
Read the original article on The Standard
