EC Sounds Alarm on Gender Imbalance in 2024 Elections
Deputy Chairman Calls for Urgent Measures to Address Gender Imbalance in Political Representation
- Out of over 800 candidates, just 120 women are contesting for parliamentary seats
- The EC reduced filing fees for female candidates and persons with disabilities by 25%
- Insufficient female participation hinders gender equality
Dr. Eric Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC), has raised concerns about the significant gender disparity in political representation for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
With only 120 women entering the parliamentary race alongside over 800 candidates nationwide, Dr. Asare is troubled by the low female participation despite initiatives aimed at boosting their involvement.
Speaking at a forum in Winneba on October 25, he highlighted the theme, “Enhancing the Electoral Process and Fostering Peaceful Co-existence,” which underscored the importance of inclusive electoral participation.
The EC has made efforts to support women and persons with disabilities by reducing filing fees 25% less than their male counterparts yet the response has been disappointing.
Dr. Asare described this lack of representation as “unfortunate,” stressing the critical need for gender balance in politics to ensure diverse perspectives are reflected in national policies.
He warned that the low female participation not only perpetuates gender inequality but also hinders broader socio-political progress that diversity can bring to governance.
