Andrew
Online Reporter
President Mnangagwa has warned religious organisations engaging in child marriages to stop or face the wrath of the law.
Addressing the launch of the High-Level Political Compact on ending Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices, in Harare on Wednesday, President Mnangagwa said even though the country allows freedom of worship, it has to happen within the confines of the law.
“The importance of the role being played by our religious and traditional leaders as custodians of our religious and traditional customs cannot be over-emphasised.
“Our democratic system has given space to citizens to affiliate with cultural and religious groupings of their choice.
“However, repugnant practices such as child marriages, which undermine the rights of our children, have no place in our country, and should stop forthwith,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President said his administration is committed to ensuring the safety of women and children.
He said Victim Friendly Courts and the Legal Aid Directorate will be decentralised to ensure that there is easy access to justice.
“Similarly, all religious and cultural practices must remain within the confines of what is legal and constitutional,” President Mnangagwa added.
Online Reporter