Saudi court allows 28 yo woman to marry man of her choice

Could this be the end of forced marriages in the Kingdom?

(I wouldn't bet on it.)

A young Saudi woman has been given permission by the courts to marry the husband of her choice, despite her father's opposition, signalling a possible end to forced marriages in the kingdom.This is the first time a Saudi court has allowed a woman to marry the man of her choice, reported Saudi daily Okaz.

The 28-year-old woman from Riyadh wanted to marry a young Imam, arguing that due to her 'advanced' age, she would not find another suitor. The woman convinced the judge to allow her to marry, and act as the woman's legal guardian so that the marriage could take place. Under Islamic Sharia law, the father or a legal guardian can arrange the marriage of his daughter without her consent, but if she opposes the marriage, it is cancelled. The young woman can also choose her spouse but it is subject to the approval of the father or guardian.

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