Funeral and Burial Bill to protect widows, respect wishes of the dead, not kill custom - Mpraeso MP
Davis Ansah Opoku, Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, said on JoyNews The Law on Sunday that Ghana's proposed funeral regulation bill is not an attempt to dismantle customary practices but rather an effort to bring clarity, dignity, and fairness to how the country manages death and burial rites. Mr. Opoku sought to allay public concerns that the bill could override traditional authority, saying, "We need to appreciate that this bill has not come to do away with customary laws. It is not about taking over the responsibilities of family heads. Culture remains central to how we conduct funerals in this country." He explained that the legislation is designed to fill a significant gap in Ghana's legal framework by providing a comprehensive system to regulate funerals, burial arrangements, and related disputes.
The absence of a unified law has often led to confusion, protracted family disagreements, and costly litigation when a person dies, according to Mr. Opoku. A key feature of the bill is the recognition of the wishes of the deceased, giving legal backing to an individual's final instructions. The legislation also targets the protection of widows and children, granting spouses and children greater decision-making rights, while also addressing the treatment of widows. The proposed law also seeks to regulate mortuary practices to ensure proper standards and accountability.
The proponents of the bill seek to introduce the Funeral and Burial Bill in the next session of Parliament.
Quick Summary
Davis Ansah Opoku, MP for Mpraeso, has said that the proposed funeral regulation bill seeks to bring clarity and fairness to death and burial rites. The bill aims to address legal gaps and ensure dignity-but some worry about tradition.
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