The National Leader and Founder of the People’s National Party (PNP) and a prominent gender advocate, Janet Asana Nabla, has expressed deep concern over the lack of female representation in President John Mahama’s new government.
Despite Mr. Mahama’s campaign promises and his previous commitments to implement the Affirmative Action—a law aimed at promoting gender inclusivity in governance—Miss Nabla believes that recent appointments are falling short in terms of involving women in leadership roles.
During an interview with Adom News, she highlighted how Mahama, during his campaign, had assured gender advocacy groups that he would prioritize gender equality in his administration.
She recalled meetings where Mahama spoke directly to gender organizations, outlining his plans for the Affirmative Action Bill and his commitment to implementing it if elected.
This, she explained, created a sense of optimism among women who hoped to see a significant change in the way women were included in government.
However, her optimism has turned into frustration.
She pointed out that in the president’s transitional committee, out of 11 members, only one was a woman, and in the ORAL Committee, which was later formed, there was not a single female representative.
Furthermore, President Mahama’s recent appointments of ministers and other government officials have similarly seen a glaring lack of women in positions of power.
While she acknowledges that President Mahama’s choice of a female Vice President is a positive step, she questions the true power behind such a symbolic appointment.
“Having a woman in the role of Vice President is great, but what is her influence? Without a portfolio, her role becomes largely ceremonial. We need women in positions where they can make real changes, not just as decorative figures,” she said.
Madam Nabla’s concerns reflect a broader issue of how women in political parties are often selected not for their capabilities but for their perceived submissiveness.
She believes that political parties, including the NDC, often appoint women who will not challenge the status quo, thus sidelining those with the experience and vision to make meaningful contributions.
The lack of gender inclusivity, she argues, is not just a problem for women but a setback for the entire country.
“If women aren’t included in the decision-making process, how can we expect the government to address issues that specifically affect women and children?” she quizzed.
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