Africa-Press – Gambia. Two former National Assembly Members have expressed concern over the low representation of women in political affairs, citing a lack of empowerment as well as cultural and religious barriers.
Speaking in separate interviews, Ndey Yassin Secka and Yakumba Jaiteh described the situation as a major setback to inclusive governance and national development.
Ndey Yassin Secka says women’s limited participation in decision-making processes undermines democracy, stressing the need for greater empowerment to enable women to contest presidential and parliamentary elections.
She noted that although women play leadership roles in society, they remain largely excluded from senior political positions.
“We understand that not all women are interested in politics, but even the few involved can make a significant difference,” Secka said, adding that politics should be transparent and inclusive.
She further observed that while women form the bulk of voters during elections, men continue to dominate key political positions after winning elections.
Secka also highlighted financial constraints and cyberbullying as major challenges discouraging women from contesting elections, and called on government, political parties, and civil society organisations to empower women politically.
For her part, former Serrekunda Constituency lawmaker Yakumba Jaiteh said women constitute more than 50 percent of registered voters, yet this is not reflected in their representation in parliament or the cabinet.
She recalls that the Women’s Act provides for at least 30 percent representation of women in parliament, noting that this provision has not been fully implemented, particularly in cabinet appointments.
Jaiteh also cited cyberbullying, as well as religious, cultural, and social barriers, as factors contributing to the low participation of women in politics.
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