The Aya Institute for Women has called on political parties to prioritize gender inclusion in the upcoming general elections, emphasizing the importance of women’s inclusion in a democracy.
In a statement issued and signed by the Programmes and Advocacy Coordinator, Ms Bridget N. Biney, the institute raised concerns over the recent parliamentary primaries in the major political parties in the country where female candidates lost to their male counterparts.
“After the 2016 general elections, Ghana’s Parliament recorded 35 (13%) female Members of Parliament (MPs) and 240 (87%) male MPs out of the 275 MPs, while the 2020 general elections recorded 40 female MPs (14.5%) and 235 (85.4%) male MPs. Despite being ushered into modern democracy after three decades, we are yet to make bold and intentional national laws of political inclusion by employing a gender quota system.”
Ms Bridget N. Biney
The institute made the statement in commemoration of this year’s International Women’s Day.
The institute, therefore, urged women voters to recognise their collective power and consider their interests when evaluating the social policies of political parties.
The Programmes and Advocacy Coordinator, Ms Bridget N. Biney stated, “Women’s vote and women’s political mobilisation are the key drivers for success for political parties and those contributions must be politically negotiated and rewarded.”
Ms Biney explained that the surest way to utilise women’s talents for the development of the country was to recognise the historic imbalances against women and that participation in key sectors by women was both their democratic and employment rights.
“True women’s empowerment through the labour force participation of women and education is an enhancing effect of women’s empowerment on democracy. Breaking down stereotypes surrounding women’s leadership and achievements will foster the inclusion of women in Ghana.”
Ms Bridget N. Biney
Ms Biney noted that International Women’s Day provided an opportunity for females to celebrate their gains, reflect on their journeys as women and call for a better gender-responsive system that recognises, includes, and celebrates Ghanaian women.
She also called on the media to produce content that acknowledged women’s integral role in society and politics, avoiding gender stereotyping and ensuring gender normalisation during the election period.
“We must avoid gender stereotyping and occasional gender spotlighting in our news reportage. Gender must be normalised and we must make a conscious effort during this electioneering period to gender audit programmes, panels and issues.”
Ms Bridget N. Biney
Women’s Day
Additionally, Gender advocate and media personality, Josephine Oppong-Yeboah, called for more women’s representation in Ghana’s political leadership space.
She noted that female representation within the country’s political leadership space both at the local and national levels has been abysmal over the years despite concerted efforts by concerned individuals and organisations to press for the implementation of affirmative action both in elective and appointive positions for female folks.
She noted that when supportive systems are instituted by the country, it will encourage more women to actively participate in politics both at the local and national levels.
Speaking on this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD), Ms Oppong-Yeboah, observed that inspiring the inclusion of women in decision-making is crucial for ensuring comprehensive problem-solving.
“By tapping into the talents and experiences of women, we create more robust and representative leadership, contributing to a fairer and more equitable society.”
Ms Oppong-Yeboah
This year’s IWD is on the theme: “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” with a focus on addressing economic disempowerment, while the campaign theme for this year is “Inspire Inclusion.”
International Women’s Day is celebrated to highlight and address gender inequalities globally.
It serves as a reminder to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness about persistent challenges, and promote gender parity.
The celebration thus fosters a collective commitment to advancing women’s rights, encouraging inclusivity, and striving for a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities and recognition.
Ms Oppong-Yeboah indicated investing in women’s progress and development is essential for societal and economic growth, adding that “empowering women through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities not only improves their well-being but also strengthens communities.”
She explained that society benefits a lot when women are supported into leadership positions, noting that “women leaders often bring empathy, resilience, and a different approach to problem-solving, contributing to more comprehensive solutions.”
Ms Oppong-Yeboah also stressed that supporting women is essential for creating a fair and inclusive society, pointing out that gender equality benefits everyone and promotes a more just and prosperous world.
She has therefore encouraged women leaders to also use their platforms to encourage young girls into leadership positions by providing mentorship for them.
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