World
Sierra Leone First Lady Refuses to Condemn Female Genital Mutilation, Citing Lack of 'Reliable Data' on Harm
Sierra Leone's First Lady Fatima Maada Bio has denied supporting female genital mutilation but refuses to publicly condemn it until she sees 'reliable data' proving its harm. Her stance has drawn criticism from over 20 health experts, survivors, and politicians who sent an open letter expressing concern. Sierra Leone has one of the highest FGM rates globally, with no law criminalizing the practice.