By Abdoulie John
As the international sports world continues to reel from controversial remarks made by a French sports journalist about Belgium and Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku’s decision to attend the birth of his first child, Gambian journalist and women’s rights advocate Halimatou Ceesay has strongly condemned the comments, calling for greater recognition of men’s involvement in pregnancy and childbirth.
Ceesay, known for her advocacy for gender equality and family rights, spoke out after French journalist France Pierron lambasted Doku for planning to leave the World Cup to give birth.
On June 19, 2026, Pierron declared that fathers are “useless at birth,” sparking widespread outrage. The remarks led to her suspension from on-air duties at L’Équipe until the end of the season, as the channel cited a “heated controversy.”
In an exclusive interview with The Alkamba Times, Ceesay challenged the notion that men play a lesser role during childbirth. “How can anyone argue that men are less important during childbirth? Pregnancy requires the contribution of both a woman and a man,” she said.
She emphasized that a father’s responsibility begins at the start of pregnancy, not just after delivery. “A father’s responsibility should begin at the moment pregnancy starts, not just after the baby is born,” Ceesay stated firmly.
The advocate highlighted the often-overlooked struggles many women face alone. She deplored the reality that numerous women attend antenatal clinics without their partners, endure labor unsupported, and navigate postpartum recovery with minimal help. “Some experience postpartum depression, yet their husbands or partners may not recognize the signs or offer the necessary care,” she added.
Ceesay praised Doku’s choice to prioritize his family. “A man who prioritizes being present for his wife or partner during pregnancy, labor, and after childbirth deserves recognition, not ridicule,” she said. She described such actions as “an act of responsibility, not weakness,” urging more men to follow suit.
“Fatherhood is not only about providing financially; it is also about being present and sharing the journey of bringing a child into the world,” Ceesay concluded.
Pierron later issued a brief apology on X, acknowledging her comments about childbirth being a “disgusting moment” and fathers being “useless” were inappropriate. However, the backlash continues to fuel debates on gender roles, paternity leave, and societal expectations around parenthood in both sports and broader society.
