Aja Fatoumatta Tambajang, former vice president of the Gambia, has urged National Assembly members to reconsider their decision in attempting to decriminalise female genital mutilation.

FGM practice was outlawed in the country by the Jammeh regime and attracts a three year jail sentence and heavy fine of 50,000 dalasis for offenders. 

However, some MPs have recently called for the ban to be lifted on the deep-rooted traditional practice amid contentious debate between religious leaders and activists.  

The former VP Tambajang has added her voice to the debate.  

She told lawmakers to reconsider the lifting of the ban on FGM.

Meanwhile, VP Tambajang also recommended that both the presidential and legislative elections be held on the same day to avoid waste of resources.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba