🏛️ Polygyny: the law · #52
What happens if a married man declares himself single on the marriage form to avoid a polygamy application?
It is an offence: Act 303 s.38 makes a false iqrar or statement made to procure a marriage an offence punishable by fine or imprisonment, besides the offence of polygamy without permission (s.123).
Religiously, it is lying and deception that destroys trust, and the Prophet ﷺ named lying as a sign of a hypocrite (Sahih al-Bukhari 33). The effect on a deceived woman is serious: she may not know she is a second wife, her rights to maintenance and turns are neglected, and registering children becomes complicated. If you find yourself in this situation, keep your documents, report to the religious office, and get advice about confirming the marriage, maintenance and your rights. Guardians and prospective wives should check a suitor's status through family and the religious office before the contract. See the question on penalties for unauthorised polygamy.
Religiously, it is lying and deception that destroys trust, and the Prophet ﷺ named lying as a sign of a hypocrite (Sahih al-Bukhari 33). The effect on a deceived woman is serious: she may not know she is a second wife, her rights to maintenance and turns are neglected, and registering children becomes complicated. If you find yourself in this situation, keep your documents, report to the religious office, and get advice about confirming the marriage, maintenance and your rights. Guardians and prospective wives should check a suitor's status through family and the religious office before the contract. See the question on penalties for unauthorised polygamy.