A Gambian cleric has lashed out at critics of female circumcision following the arrest of an elderly woman over the death of an infant.
The arrest comes amid renewed national debate over female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice long rooted in religious and cultural traditions in parts of the Gambia. Despite being outlawed, FGM remains widespread, with supporters insisting it is a religious duty while campaigners warn of serious health risks, including infection, long-term trauma, and, in some cases, death.
Fatou Camara, 70, was remanded under Section 32A of the Women’s Amendment Act, which bans female genital mutilation and carries a maximum life sentence. Two others, Oumie Sawaneh and Hawa Conteh, were charged as accomplices under Section 32B and later released on bail.
Fakebba Ceesay, a vocal defender of the practice, did not hold back, stating that: “some say female circumcision isn’t in Allah’s book.”
“Just days ago, an old woman was arrested over a baby’s death. But what about children who died from bad syrup a few years back? Who was punished for that? Female circumcision is part of our religion.
“Families can decide for themselves. Yet reckless drivers kill people daily with no arrests. Let people practise their faith in peace,” he told Gambiana.
He also targeted campaigners fighting the practice, adding that “those taking money to stop people practising their religion will not benefit. They’ll use it on themselves until they leave this world. Haven’t you seen officials stealing public funds and constantly travelling overseas for treatment?”
By Adama Makasuba
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