The Incident

On December 20, 2021, in Sierra Leone, Maseray Sei, a 21-year-old mother died following a voluntary female genital mutilation (FGM) procedure using a razor blade. Isatu Sei, the victim’s aunt and witness, testified that shortly after the procedure, Maseray complained of a headache, later convulsing and dying. The postmortem report indicated death due to acute hemorrhagic shock and profuse bleeding from the procedure. The FGM was performed by Sowo Sandy, who was paid $10 by Sei to carry out the operation.

Note – a Sowo is one of the Soweis, the women who hold the most senior rank in the powerful, all-female secret societies responsible for FGM in villages and towns across Sierra Leone).

The Legal Response

Sowo Sandy was arrested but because FGM is not explicitly illegal in Sierra Leone, her charge was limited to manslaughter. Despite international and local support, the case faced delays and resistance within the Bondo community. (“Bondo” is a secluded forest area where FGM takes place)  Witnesses and family members have been intimidated, and the court case has not been heard. Currently Sowo Sandy is out on bail and there is no evidence that the case is likely to continue given the pressure placed on the family of late Maseray Sei to drop the case.

The Wider Context

Sierra Leone remains one of the few African countries, out of 54, where FGM is not illegal despite international conventions and pressure. This legal gap contributes to the perpetuation of the deeply entrenched practice. It  is often linked to coming-of-age rituals which contributes to it remaining culturally significant and widespread.

Traditionally in Sierra Leone culture, you’re thought to be a child as long as your parents are alive. “Even if you are 40, your mother can slap you, so even at that age your parents can force you to have Bondo,” in the words of local anti FGM activist Ann-Marie Caulker. ,  Another activist add that the real force preventing the ending of FGM is politics as the soweis have great influence in determining where women will cast their vote, “When politicians want to talk to communities, they call for the soweis,” said Aminata Sheriff, project coordinator of the NGO Plan International.

The Responsible Legislation

Sierra Leone ratified the Maputo Protocol calling for the elimination of harmful practices like FGM. However, as of 2021, there was no explicit constitutional ban on FGM.