Elected deputy for the sub-prefecture of Gagnoa, Moussa Konaté takes a stand on the issue of dowry in Ivory Coast
Legislating on dowry in Ivory Coast is a major concern for Moussa Konaté. Recently elected as an independent member of parliament for the sub-prefecture of Gagnoa, he held a press conference last Thursday to shed light on this issue, which he considers essential for most families, especially those living in rural areas.
The independent MP immediately refused to comment on polygamy, arguing that one MP is not qualified to answer another. He maintained that it was not yet time to offer an opinion on the matter, especially since no bill concerning polygamy had been submitted to the MPs.
However, Mr. Konaté argues that, in addition to polygamy, the issue of dowry must be addressed. "I want to propose a law to recognize dowry. We must give dowry legal status," Mr. Konaté insisted.
Generally, he notes, the parents pay the dowry before appearing before the mayor. "In this case, if one of the spouses happens to die, the children have no legal status.
I think we need to consider the role of dowry in Ivorian law because it's important. I am the son of a planter.
"Few farmers are legally married. If not through customary marriage," explains the elected official, while denouncing the fate of orphaned children from whom uncles and aunts seize all the property left by the deceased parent.
Moussa Konaté insists on the imperative need for legislation to regulate such situations and protect orphans and widows, where applicable. Beyond the issue of dowry, the MP believes that the monopoly granted to certain funeral homes must be broken to prevent the financial burden placed on grieving families.
"The grieving family is forced to choose a type of coffin and bear the costs of maintaining the body. All of this comes at exorbitant prices. This forces our parents in rural areas to use their crops as collateral or sell them in order to be able to give the deceased a dignified burial," complains the member of parliament.
"All of this must change. That is my mission as a member of parliament. A member of parliament must bring well-being to his people," the speaker argued.
He plans to organize a tour of his electoral district to thank the people who made him their representative in parliament.
Lyne Zahui / © Gagnoa.net
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