Low women representation in party leadership a concern – Election Watch

Election Watch Ghana has raised concern over the low representation of women in the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) following its just-ended national executive election, urging the party to adopt deliberate measures to promote greater gender balance and inclusiveness.

Among the 11 leadership positions contested in the election, only one woman, Hawa Koomson, the National Women's Organiser, was elected.

In a statement issued on Sunday, October 4, the group said the outcome raises concerns about the extent to which women are being adequately represented in political leadership, stressing that greater representation of women in decision-making was essential to ensuring that political leadership reflects the diversity, experiences and aspirations of the Ghanaian population.

“If Ghana is to achieve meaningful inclusion in political governance, deliberate efforts must be made to create greater opportunities for women to participate in decision-making at all levels,” the statement said.

Election Watch Ghana therefore encouraged the NPP to consider gender balance and inclusiveness in subsequent appointments and leadership opportunities, stressing that the issue goes beyond the number of women occupying positions.

Beyond gender representation, the group also raised concerns about the increasing cost of internal party elections, particularly the financial demands placed on candidates for transportation, feeding, accommodation and other logistical arrangements for delegates.

According to the group, the rising costs could place significant financial burdens on candidates and create an environment where financial capacity becomes an important determinant of electoral success.

It has consequently called on political parties to consider mechanisms through which the basic logistical needs of accredited delegates can be centrally organised and financed by the party, rather than leaving individual aspirants to bear those costs.

Election Watch Ghana believes such reforms would help create a more level playing field for candidates and reduce the influence of money in internal party contests.

The group also cautioned against the growing emphasis on candidates perceived to be politically aggressive, influential or financially capable at the expense of those who offer clear and innovative ideas for the advancement of the party and the country.

— CitiNewsRoom