MOHAMMED RASOOLDEEN
COLOMBO:The Ministry of Justice has decided to include amendments to the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, including making a policy decision to allow polygamy of Muslim men on strict conditions.
The Colombo Times learnt that the minister of justice Ali Sabry had explained to the Tuesday’s cabinet of the sentiments of the Muslim community which is opposed to the total repeal of the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act but it welcomes any constructive changes to the existing system.
Earlier on the recommendation of the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Constitutional Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, at its Cabinet Meeting on March 8, 2021, decided to ban polygamy of Muslim men, introduce new laws and abolish Quazi courts.
However, the Justice Minister pointed out that at the cabinet meeting held on Monday ,Feb.21 that the decision has been opposed by the Muslim community.
The Ministry of Justice is of the view that it is appropriate to enforce the law in the Quazi courts as the submission of polygamy laws by the Muslim community to the District Courts is another reason for the legal delay.
The Ministry of Justice has decided that only issues that cannot be resolved should be referred to the District Court.
