-After being reportedly murdered by her partner
Monrovia, Liberia – The Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has expressed outrage over the brutal killing of Princess Zuo, who was fatally stabbed by her boyfriend, Bill Jallah, near Duport Road Junction. Reports indicate that the attack occurred after Zuo refused to resume what she described as a broken relationship.
WONGOSOL emphasized that women often live in fear of various forms of violence—including emotional, psychological, physical, and, in this tragic case, lethal repercussions. Such horrific acts not only devastate families and communities but also deter other women from seeking help or escaping abusive situations.
“Princess Zuo’s death is a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to combat gender-based violence,” stated WONGOSOL. “It is imperative that we address unresolved conflicts in relationships and foster a culture of accountability, justice, and prevention.”
With this, WONGOSOL has unequivocally condemned the senseless act of violence and is calling on the government, particularly the Liberia National Police, to take swift and decisive action. The organization demands that the perpetrator be apprehended and face the full extent of the law, asserting that justice for Princess Zuo cannot be delayed.
“Our deepest condolences go to Princess Zuo’s family and loved ones during this unimaginably painful time,” WONGOSOL expressed. “As a community, we must unite to condemn such violence and strive for a society where women and girls can live free from fear and harm.”
Additionally, WONGOSOL urges the government and relevant stakeholders to increase investments in resources for counseling, conflict resolution, and legal support for victims of violence. The organization stresses that early intervention, robust support systems, and awareness campaigns are crucial in preventing further tragedies.
GBV in Liberia
In 2023, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection reported 3,204 cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), with a staggering 83% of those cases involving survivors under the age of 20. The Penal Law – Title 26 – Liberian Code of Laws Revised states that “A person is guilty of murder if he: (a) Purposely or knowingly causes the death of another human being, or (b) Causes the death of another human being under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life.”
According to UN Women, the statistics surrounding gender-based violence are staggering: nearly one in three women and girls worldwide will experience physical or sexual violence during their lifetime. In 2023 alone, this violence escalated to femicide for at least 51,100 women, with over half of these cases committed by intimate partners or family members. UN Women highlights that femicides are the ultimate evidence that the systems and structures meant to protect women and girls are failing.
Article 4 of the PROTOCOL TO THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON HUMAN AND PEOPLE’S RIGHTS ON THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN IN AFRICA underscores the importance of protecting women’s rights. It mandates that every woman shall be entitled to respect for her life and the integrity and security of her person, stating that “All forms of exploitation, cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment and treatment shall be prohibited.” The protocol further demands that states take appropriate measures to enact and enforce laws prohibiting all forms of violence against women.
About WONGOSOL
The Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) is a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to the advancement and protection of women and girls in Liberia. Since its founding in 1998, WONGOSOL has championed gender equality and addressed the various challenges faced by women and girls in Liberian society.
