Dow decries low women numbers in Parly
Friday, November 08, 2024 | 510 Views |
Dow PIC.KENNEDY RAMOKONE
In an interview with Mmegi, Dow shared: "At least we are now six women MPs against 61 men. Three women won general elections, and an additional three were nominated by the President. This is progress, but not enough. People must recognise that women are capable and can contribute to meaningful change. However, we need more women in Parliament." She emphasised her goal of uniting female MPs to speak as one on issues impacting women. Dow also committed to using her experience to mentor the newer female MPs, noting that only her and Bogolo Kenewendo have prior parliamentary experience.
Additionally, Dow urged the ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) party to secure political funding to increase female representation in the 2029 General Election. She pointed out that the current low numbers of elected women result from insufficient support at both societal and party levels for women pursuing council and parliamentary seats. Dow emphasised the importance of women supporting each other and encouraged understanding of its value. When asked about the readiness of young MP Lesego Chombo for the challenging parliamentary environment, Dow responded: “We will support her. Parliament needs youth, and we should welcome their involvement, not deter it." Dow praised Chombo's potential and shared that she, as a lawyer, is fully capable of adapting and succeeding with guidance, as many others have before her.
It is not uncommon in this part of the world for parents to actually punish their children when they show signs of depression associating it with issues of indiscipline, and as a result, the poor child will be lashed or given some kind of punishment. We have had many suicide cases in the country and sadly some of the cases included children and young adults. We need to start looking into issues of mental health with the seriousness it...