-Gender Ministry Expresses Sorrow Over Princess Zuo’s Death
Monrovia, Liberia – The tragic death of Princess Zuo, a young woman whose life was cut short by an alleged act of gender-based violence involving her ex-partner, has sent shockwaves through the community and reignited concerns over the safety of women and girls in Liberia.
The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the urgent need to combat the rising tide of violence against women and girls, particularly in Montserrado County. The Ministry believes that this heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the persistent dangers faced by vulnerable populations in the country.
Gender Minister Hon. Gbeme Horace-Kollie conveyed her profound grief, 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.” She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring justice for Princess Zou and all victims of gender-based violence while promoting awareness for a safer environment for women and girls.
The Ministry condemned the act in the strongest terms, calling for swift justice. It is particularly troubling, Minister Horace-Kollie noted, that a figure of authority would abuse their position to commit such a heinous crime, undermining the principles of compassion, respect, and dignity.
Highlighting the broader implications of this tragedy, the Ministry pointed out that Princess Zuo’s death is part of a global epidemic affecting women and girls. According to United Nations data, nearly one in three women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence in 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.
The Ministry is alarmed by the prevalence of gender-based violence and emphasizes that addressing this crisis requires stronger legal frameworks, increased community engagement, and a collective commitment from all stakeholders to create safer environments for women and girls.
In light of this tragedy, the Ministry is urging communities, faith-based institutions, and grassroots organizations to lead efforts in fostering environments that respect and uphold the rights of women and girls. “Only through collective action can we prevent such tragedies from recurring and create a society that values the sanctity of human life,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community of Princess Zou. Social workers from the Ministry are currently providing psychosocial support to the bereaved family and will continue to assist them during this difficult time.
As the community mourns this devastating loss, the Ministry calls for unity in the fight against gender-based violence, urging citizens to stand together in creating a safer and more equitable society for all. Princess Zou’s death should serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring action to protect the lives and rights of women and girls across Liberia.
