ABANTU Urges Political Will to Boost Women’s Participation in 2024 Elections
ABANTU Urges Political Will to Boost Women’s Participation in 2024 Elections
In a resolute call for action, ABANTU For Development, a prominent women’s advocacy group, has emphasized the critical need for political will to advance women’s participation and representation in Ghanaian politics and national discourse.
During a recent media briefing held in Accra, the organization highlighted concerns over a noticeable decline in women’s involvement ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Mrs. Hamida Harrison, ABANTU’s Resource Sustainability Manager, voiced deep-seated worries about the persistent inequalities and discrimination faced by women in political arenas compared to their male counterparts.
She pointed to the longstanding delay in passing the Affirmative Action Bill (AAB) as a major contributing factor, believing its enactment could significantly alleviate these disparities.
Reflecting on the trajectory since Ghana’s transition to democratic governance, Mrs. Harrison expressed grave concerns about the anticipated further decrease in women’s representation in the upcoming 9th parliament post-2024 elections.
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She criticized both the ruling NPP and opposition NDC parties for their failure to ensure the retention of current female parliamentarians during their respective 2024 Parliamentary Primaries.
Highlighting the urgency of aligning national legislation with international standards, including those outlined in the Beijing Declaration, Mrs. Harrison stressed the need for immediate measures to combat systemic gender biases in politics. She urged women across Ghana to step forward boldly into political and social leadership roles.
In a direct appeal to government authorities, political party leaders, the media, and the public at large, Mrs. Harrison called for concerted efforts to prioritize and promote women’s active engagement in Ghana’s political landscape.
She underscored that enhancing women’s participation is not only a matter of justice but crucial for the country’s overall development and democratic maturity.
By Margaret Esaah Boakye
