US courage award for Dame Josephine

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The National, Friday March 7th, 2014

 By DIANNE WAKETSI 

PIONEER female politician and women’s rights activist Dame Josephine Abaijah has been presented the US Secretary of State’s Women of Courage Award for her achievements in politics and government.

The award, which was presented by the US Embassy to Dame Josephine in Port Moresby yesterday, recognises the courageous efforts of women in various fields and professions.

Dame Josephine began her political career as the leader of the separatist Papua Besena movement prior to independence. 

She entered Parliament as the first woman MP in 1972 and later became the first woman governor in 1997. 

“I am deeply humbled and greatly honoured for this rare privilege to be given the recognition and an award which I am not really worthy of,” she said.

“My heart is greatly troubled and disturbed for I feel the awards and recognitions are for those who tow the line and achieve big. Unfortunately, I never towed the line. 

“The situation warranted only sensitisation programmes at that time and my entry into politics was by the wishes of the people.”

Dame Josephine said back then, men believed that a woman’s place was in the house and bearing children and in her first year in Parliament, many of her male colleagues laughed and made ridiculous comments about her.

“Almost all the people of the Central went out and voted, breaking the vicious cycle of male domination in Parliament.”

She added that the most important thing that she learnt from talking to people and being with people during her campaign times was that her appearance and her personal touch was all the magic she needed.

Dame Josephine thanked all those who contributed to making her who she is today.

“These people gave me strength and their shoulders were there when I wanted to cry and I truly thank them for their continuous support during those trying times,” she said.