Calls for MPs to pass abortion Bill

Lawmakers in Malawi have been asked to pass the Termination of Pregnancy Bill to reduce the number of females who are dying from unsafe abortions. Chiefs, religious and political leaders from around the country have expressed concerns over the delays in the process particularly since the Special Law Commission of Abortion Laws completed its research in July 2015. A report on the allAfrica site notes that the commission consisted of representatives from the judiciary, the Health Ministry, chiefs and religious leaders. A study by the University of Malawi's College of Medicine revealed that 53% of all pregnancies in the country are unintended and that 141 000 abortions occur every year. In terms of the current laws, abortions are only allowed through an authorised medical procedure when the patient's life is in danger.