Women’s seats not the answer

Letters

THE idea of having 22 seats reserved for women in parliament is popping up again and it is for our legislators to debate on the issue.
When we look at our political and electoral system, we can admit that it is no terrain for women to traverse.
The concerns raised by the international community about the lack of women’s participation in our parliament is probably one of the reasons for it too.
We have to look at it carefully.
As we look for an easy way out for women, for whatever reasons, we may end up with a system that will turn into a monster, much to our regret later.
If there is a need to encourage more women into parliament, then the government has to improve our electoral system; make it safe and fair so that we can encourage more women to go into politics and contest in our general elections.
The concept of having 22 reserved parliamentary seats for women may sound good for now, but experience has taught us that it is better to be careful than to be sorry.
I am challenging the government to improve the electoral system first to encourage more women into politics.
That’s all.

John Naneme