Mzuzu-based Oneness Arts Theatre has said the power to have an abortion or not lies with the woman carrying the pregnancy.
The message came through their play, ‘Arrogant ambition’ performed at Luwinga Secondary School on Friday. The play depicted a reputable couple forcing their only daughter Mandaaliza (Sarah Katunga) to abort her pregnancy because the man responsible is not of their tribe.
stand: Mzumara
Oneness Arts Theatre director James Gondwe told Malawi News Agency (Mana) that the play carries that message because abortion is a matter that must be decided by the pregnant woman.
“In developing this play, we had in mind parents, guardians and even fathers who are often known to exert pressure on the women in as far as the decision on abortion is concerned.
“However, we believe that since it is her life which is at stake, a woman should be left free to decide without being influenced in any way,” he said.
Mzuzu University Theatre Group director Misheck Mzumara, who patronised the show, shared the sentiments in the play.
“As artists, we are there to bring insight on issues such as these and I agree with the group’s stand that the women in question should be the sole deciders of their fate in as far as abortion is concerned since the decision would affect them either way,” he said.
The play also bemoans the practice of arranged marriages based on tribe.
