UGANDA: Women Want Half of Political Positions

Women activists have urged the Government and other political parties to promote gender equality by ensuring that women win 50% of the political seats in next year's general polls.

Over 100 women activists from 13 districts made the call in a report passed on Wednesday at Speke Resort Munyonyo. Women leaders from seven political parties, which included NRM, FDC, DP and JEEMA attended.

This was after a three-day conference organised by Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE).

In the report, the activists called for the disbandment of the paramilitary and other forces, which perpetuate gender-based violence, dehumanisation and humiliation of women. Such acts, the women noted, undermine their participation in politics.

Patricia Munabi, the FOWODE executive director, appealed to women to work with the organisation to ensure that political parties follow gender parity.

Munabi added that FOWODE would help women identify elective seats and help them win in the forthcoming elections.

Solome Nakaweesi, the FOWODE chairperson, appealed to the Government to listen to those calling for the restructuring of the Electoral Commission.

The education minister, Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire, who represented President Yoweri Museveni, called on women leaders to promote democracy.

"It is my sincere hope that the deliberations and goals set in this conference shall indeed bear fruit. The Government shall continue to support the cause of women. Accountability starts with you," Bitamazire said.

Reading the President's speech, Bitamazire said the proportion of women in local councils rose from 6% in the 1990s to 44% in 2003, while in Parliament, it rose from 18% in 1996 to 30.4% to date, which she said is the internationally recommended quota.

The President acknowledged that women are agents of development and peacemakers.

Bitamazire said Museveni is committed to ensuring that women's education levels are improved and putting an end to discriminatory laws.