PAPUA New Guineans legislators have been given notice that efforts are underway to end polygamy in the nation of more than 10 million people across 8000 tribes.
The move has been labelled as an attempt to promote gender equality and protect women.
Prime Minister James Marape told parliament during a discussion on women’s issues and family welfare that a policy paper would soon be presented to the National Executive Council outlining the proposal.
No dates were given but if approved the legislation would end the current culturally acceptable practice of polygamous unions.
Marape said the policy was intended to strengthen families and ensure women and children received the respect and support they deserved,
“Some good aspects of our culture must be preserved, but other practices that harm our families must be left behind,” he said.
He did not say how the government intended to control polygamy in a country with complex cultures and geographical and logistical challenges of enforcing the law.
Marape said that although the government recognised the cultural complexity surrounding the issue, it believed reforms were necessary for the country’s long-term wellbeing.
Under the proposal, current arrangements would remain recognised, but future marriages involving multiple spouses would not be allowed once the law took effect.
Marape suggested the policy, may come into force around 2030, allowing time for consultations and community awareness.
He warned that polygamy often led to unstable homes, leaving many women and children without adequate care.
Our laws must ensure that women and children are protected and that family responsibilities are respected,” he said.
The government plans to engage churches, legal experts and traditional leaders before introducing the legislation in parliament.
Additional Source: PACNEWS