Namibian chiefs and the clergy rejected the idea that woman should be allowed more than one husband, during consultative meetings by the Law Reform and Development Commission (LRDC). The Namibian Sun reported the news on Monday

Traditional authorities around Namibia discussed issues relating to family law, when chiefs and church leaders expressed their disapproval of a woman marrying more than one man.

“The idea of a woman with more than one husband will not be socially accepted in Namibia, and the church has made itself very clear on polygamy. Our position is one woman for one man,” said Reverend Joseph Avia of the Lutheran Church.

Chief Herman Iipumbu of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority said of a woman marrying more than one man: “Unheard of all over the world”. The chief said his traditional authority would not accept it.

On the subject of polygamy, women in Opuwo were the only ones in favour of men having more than one wife because it would mean more help with household chores.

The feeling is that all parties should be protected when customary laws are examined