Ghana’s political landscape remains largely impermeable to women, as a multitude of entrenched barriers and biases continue to curtail their participation and perpetuate a profound gender imbalance in the country’s political leadership.
Currently, women hold approximately 14.5 percent of the seats in Ghana’s parliament, a modest increase from previous years but still a far cry from gender parity.
Cultural and social norms perpetuate gender roles, relegating women to domestic duties and excluding them from political decision-making.
Furthermore, limited access to education and training further marginalizes women, denying them the skills and knowledge necessary for political engagement.
Economic constraints also play a significant role, as women’s economic dependence on men and lack of financial resources limit their ability to pursue political careers.
Gender-based violence and discrimination in political spaces further discourage women from participating.
Accordingly, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah denounced the unjust arrest of Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunor, the NDC parliamentary candidate, and highlighted how such incidents of violence and intimidation discourage women from engaging in politics in Ghana, further perpetuating their underrepresentation in the political sphere.
“How can we encourage more females to actively participate in politics when state institutions will be perverted to go after them?” – Dr. Edward Omane Boamah
Dr. Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, condemned the arrest as unjustified and revealed that it was carried out without the knowledge or approval of the Inspector General of Police, George Akuffo Dampare, suggesting a potential breach of protocol and undermining of authority.
“A week ago, the outgoing crooked NPP government collaborated with a few crooked elements in the Ghana Police Service to trample on the rights of a female parliamentary candidate who is also the mother of a child. Based on the “Order from above,” they arrested Madam Naa Koryoo Okunor and detained her overnight at the Cantonments police station. Note that Vice President Bawumia is the Chairman of the Police Council”.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah
Tackling Unconscious Bias, Stereotypes, And Lack Of Mentorship
Furthermore, unconscious bias and stereotyping perpetuate harmful gender norms, viewing women as incapable of leadership roles.
The lack of mentorship and support for women in politics is another significant obstacle as with few role models and mentors, women face challenges navigating the political landscape.
Family and caregiving responsibilities also weigh heavily on women, limiting their time and energy for political engagement.
Political party barriers and media underrepresentation further exacerbate the issue. Women face obstacles within political parties, including limited access to resources and decision-making positions.
The media’s underrepresentation and misrepresentation of women’s political views and contributions perpetuate their invisibility in the political sphere.
Historical and systemic factors perpetuate gender inequality in Ghana’s political institutions, creating a persistent gender imbalance.
Dr. Omane Boamah alleged that the government’s unwarranted intimidation, arrest, and detention of a female parliamentary candidate was a deliberate attempt to crush the spirit and resilience of African women, who are already underrepresented in politics.
Addressing these challenges is crucial to increasing women’s participation in politics and promoting gender equality in Ghana’s political landscape.
Policies and programs aimed at empowering women, challenging gender norms, and promoting inclusive political spaces are essential for achieving gender parity in Ghanaian politics.
As such, Dr. Omane Boamah urged a united effort to challenge and dismantle the systemic barriers that obstruct women’s political participation, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society where women have a greater voice in leadership and decision-making.
“It’s reassuring to note that following President Mahama’s emphatic condemnation of the orchestrated arrest, teeming supporters of NDC and Ghanaians from all walks of life protested against this gross injustice. And signaled loudly that the 2024 elections will not be business as usual.”
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah
Dr. Omane Boamah confidently asserted that women possess inherent strength and resilience, declaring that a determined African woman is an unstoppable force, capable of overcoming any obstacle and achieving greatness. “I know determined African woman has agency”, he added.
Thus, Dr. Omane Boamah observed that Phyllis Okunor’s arrest transformed her into a powerful symbol of resistance against gender-based injustice, catapulting her to a heightened level of recognition and admiration as a champion of women’s rights.
“I have no doubts that she’ll emerge victorious as the next MP for the Awutu Senya East Constituency on December 07”.
“As Katy Perry roared in her song, [Naa Koryoo has] “got the eye of the tiger, a fighter Dancing through the fire · ‘Cause [she is] a champion, and you’re gonna hear [her] roar · Louder, louder…on December 07 with victory”.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah
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