IPNEWS: The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection says it is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Princess Zou, a young woman whose promising future was cut short in a devastating act of gender-based violence. This heinous incident, allegedly involving a trusted spiritual leader, has left an entire community in mourning and serves as a stark reminder of the persistent dangers faced by women and girls daily.
This tragedy underscores the urgent need to intensify efforts to combat gender-based violence across Liberia, particularly as incidents of violence against women and girls continue to rise in Montserrado County. It highlights the severe consequences of societal failures to adequately protect women, girls, and children from these crimes.
Gender Minister, Hon. Gbeme Horace-Kollie expressed her profound grief over the incident, stating, “This tragic loss of life is a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen our systems and communities to protect women and girls. We cannot continue to lose precious lives to acts of senseless violence. The Ministry remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring justice for Princess Zou and all victims of gender-based violence while intensifying efforts to promote massive awareness on the need for a safer environment for every woman and girl in Liberia.”
The Ministry condemns this barbaric act in the strongest terms and calls for swift justice to be served. It is deeply troubling that a figure of authority and influence, entrusted with guiding others, would abuse his position and commit such a heinous crime, undermining the principles of compassion, respect and dignity.
The Ministry is alarmed by the prevalence of such incidents and emphasizes that gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that requires urgent attention. Addressing this crisis demands stronger legal frameworks, increased community engagement, and the collective commitment of all stakeholders to create safer environments for women and girls.
The Ministry also recognizes that Princess Zou’s death is not an isolated case but part of a global epidemic that disproportionately affects women and girls. According to the United Nations, nearly one in three women and girls worldwide experience physical or sexual violence during their lifetime. In 2023 alone, femicide claimed the lives of over 51,000 women, with more than half of these killings committed by intimate partners or family members. These alarming statistics serve as a grim reminder of the urgent need for action.
The Ministry urges communities, faith-based institutions and grassroots led organizations to lead in fostering environments where the rights of women and girls are respected and upheld. Only through collective action we can prevent such tragedies from recurring and create a society that values the sanctity of human life.
The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and community of Princess Zou. Additionally, the Ministry’s social workers are currently providing psychosocial support to the bereaved family and will continue to stand by them during this difficult time to ensure they receive the necessary care and assistance. As we mourn this tragic loss, let her death serve as a catalyst for change, a call to action to stand united against gender-based violence and work towards a safer and more equitable society for all.
