Andrew Kathindi
The discussion on the issue of abortion has been postponed until Thursday 2 July, after it was officially raised in Parliament by NUDO leader and Deputy Minister of Health, Esther Muinjangue.
After giving notice to the house to discuss the issue, Muinjangue raised the matter Thursday, although she maintained she was not for abortion in her personal capacity.
“The fact is that there are young girls who carry out abortion, whether it is traveling to other neighbouring countries or whether carrying it out in the backyards of our homes, it is taking place. Abortion does not only affect the individual. It has an impact on the society. It has an impact on other systems. My concern is more on a psychological effect on women,” she said in parliament.
Although the discussion was postponed to next week, Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) Member of Parliament, Elma Dienda declared that she would not support the motion of legalizing abortion.
“On my own behalf and not on behalf of the PDM, my conscience does not allow me to be part and parcel so I reject it and I want it to be recorded as such.” Elma Dienda said.
Dienda’s position is in stark contrast to party leader, McHenry Venaani, who in his shadow state of the nation address supported the call for the legalizing of abortion.
