Outcry over abortion clinic statement

AN announcement by Marie Stopes that abortion clinics will remain open during lockdown has drawn criticism from members of the pro-life lobby on social media and in Parliament.

A message on the Marie Stopes South Africa website said: “Marie Stopes will continue to deliver on its mission to help women and girls to have children by choice and not by chance throughout the duration of the lockdown.”

Marketing and brand manager for Marie Stopes South Africa, Whitney Chinogwenya, said in an interview on Cape Talk: “Clinics that assist people in terminating pregnancies have officially been deemed essential services amid the nationwide lockdown. Those choosing to terminate their pregnancy or in need of other sexual health services will be able to access them in line with lockdown regulations.”

ACDP MP Marie Suikers said: “The fact that Marie Stopes and other abortion clinics are allowed to operate during this lockdown, during a global pandemic where the lives of people are being placed above all other things, yet they are allowed to take the lives of the unborn, brings into stark contrast how one’s right to access health services can eliminate another’s right to life.”

Suikers said: “The statement made by Marie Stopes highlights the need for the ACDP to continue being a voice for the unborn child in South Africa.”

One of the pro-life messages on Twitter took issue with the fact that places of worship were closed during the lockdown but abortion clinics were allowed to operate.