IT’S the responsibility of political parties to ensure that more women take part in local and national elections, says Assistant Foreign Minister and Deputy Speaker Lenora Qereqeretabua.
Additionally, Ms Qereqeretabua said making political life safer for women was crucial.
“Many capable women in politics face unfair attacks, making them reluctant to participate in public office,” she said, adding that addressing these issues was essential for a more inclusive society. The 2022 general election witnessed a decline in the number of female politicians compared with the 2018 election.
“We have a lot of very capable women who are managing directors, chairs of the board but often times when you say to that woman to come into the spotlight they back off because women in politics usually get unfairly attacked compared with men counterpart.”
Ms Qereqeretabua hopes that political parties and candidates for Local Government elections will prioritise women’s representation because of the numerous options available.
