In a significant case being heard at the Tribunal de grande instance de Kaya in Burkina Faso, Z.M, a 40-year-old married father of 10, stands as the only male among 39 defendants. They are accused of involvement in female genital mutilation, a practice that has resulted in approximately 30 victims. The defendants appeared before the court in an audience foraine, a public hearing held at the Boussouma town hall.
Z.M has admitted to giving his consent for the mutilation of eight young girls, aged between 8 and 10 years old. Among these girls are three of his own daughters and five of his nieces. According to his testimony, his role in the mutilation was to facilitate the transportation of the girls to the location where the practice was to be carried out, using a motorcycle taxi.
During the interrogation, Z.M explained that he was asked by his aunts to find a means of transport for the children but claimed he was not the driver of the motorcycle taxi. The court inquired whether he had given his consent to the mutilation or if the girls were taken without his knowledge. Z.M stated that he personally gave his consent but claimed he was ignorant of the implications.
The court further questioned Z.M about his knowledge of the ban on female genital mutilation and the reasons behind his decision to allow the practice on his own family members. Z.M admitted that he was unaware of the ban and did not understand the significance of the practice. When asked why he engaged in the practice, he requested pardon, citing his ignorance.
Throughout the interrogation, Z.M repeatedly asked for forgiveness instead of providing detailed explanations for his actions. The tribunal ultimately referred him back to his seat. This hearing is part of a three-day proceeding that involves 39 defendants accused of excision, which has resulted in about 30 victims.
The audience foraine, organized by the Tribunal de grande instance de Kaya in collaboration with ENABEL, aims to bring justice closer to the populations by holding the trial outside the usual court premises. This approach is intended to facilitate access and understanding of the judicial process among the local communities.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges in combating female genital mutilation in Burkina Faso. With Z.M being the sole male defendant, the case raises questions about the roles of men in preventing this harmful practice. The tribunal's efforts to engage with the community and raise awareness about the ban on excision are crucial steps in the fight against this deeply ingrained tradition.
Key points
- The defendant, Z.M, admitted to giving consent for the mutilation of eight girls, including his own daughters and nieces.
- The case involves 39 defendants and approximately 30 victims of female genital mutilation.
- The trial is being held in an audience foraine to bring justice closer to the local population.
