Call for Parly female representation to be prioritised

June 10, 2024 46

Independent statutory body, the Commission for Gender Equality, has raised concern over the decrease in female representation in Parliament, saying it marks a step backwards.

Acting Head of Research and Policy, Naledi Selebano, says back in 2019 female representation had reached 46%, which bought the country closer to achieving gender parity in the upper house of parliament.

Selebano was reacting to slight decline in female representation for the 7th administration, which is at 174, a slight decrease from the previous administration, which had 181 women MPs.

She says more effort is needed to deal with this, especially since female presentation in other high-profile roles like Premiers remains low.

Despite the hiccups in getting more women in Parliament, the number of young people who will be representing their parties in the National Assemby has increased.

According to Parliament Secretary, Xolile George, nearly 50% of the incoming MPs fall within the 20 to 50-year age cohort.

George expressed excitement at seeing the youth playing an active role in politics, thus shaping the country’s future.