Legislative Drive to Curb Parental Neglect in Western Equatoria
Western Equatoria State lawmakers have opened debate on a bill that would criminalise men who impregnate women and then refuse to provide support, a phenomenon that local officials say is fuelling poverty and school dropout among young mothers.
Rationale Behind the Bill
Assembly Speaker Ann Tuna Richard told national broadcaster Radio Miraya that the number of single mothers has reached “alarming levels”, while many fathers “enjoy life as though they have no responsibility”, leaving women to carry the physical, emotional and financial burdens alone.
Analysts note that the situation is compounded by men engaging several partners despite limited income, a practice the bill seeks to discourage by tying fatherhood to measurable obligations.
Key Provisions: Prison and Parental Rights
If enacted, the measure sets a minimum five-year custodial sentence for any man who impregnates a woman yet fails to assist during pregnancy and after birth.
Men who outrightly deny responsibility would also lose parental rights, with the child legally recorded under the mother’s family, effectively severing paternal claims.
Social Impact on Women and Children
Supporters argue the law could reduce maternal mortality, early marriage and educational dropout by ensuring consistent resources for mothers and infants.
Data from local schools indicate that once girls leave classes due to pregnancy, few return, locking them into lifelong economic precarity.
Gender-rights activist Grace Sefu applauds the proposal, stating that “responsible fatherhood must move from rhetoric to law”. However, she urges complementary programmes such as counselling and vocational training.
Path Ahead in the Assembly
The bill passed its first reading and now heads to specialised committees for detailed scrutiny before a possible second-reading vote in the coming weeks.
Observers believe Western Equatoria could set a precedent for other South Sudanese states seeking to legislate against parental abandonment and promote family stability.