By Sahr Eric George
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – In a resolute address, Honourable Abdul Kargbo, leader of the All People’s Congress Party (APC) in parliament, has urged political parties to prioritize extensive women empowerment initiatives across the country.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the new executive members of the Female Caucus in parliament, commemorating International Women’s Day in Freetown, the opposition leader underscored the importance of increasing female representation in parliament and politics. He emphasized that the goal is not merely to provide women with salaries but to enable them to enact laws that safeguard vulnerable women.
Hon. Kargbo called upon his fellow MPs to lend support to their female counterparts, both within their parties and at the parliamentary level. “Your colleagues have entrusted you, women, to represent them. What are we doing to support them?” he questioned.
“It’s only a weak man who can fear an empowered woman,” Hon. Kargbo asserted, urging everyone to take action in support of women across the nation. He pledged his party’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment at all levels.
In her keynote address, Hon. Bernadette Lahai, president of the ECOWAS Female Parliament (ECOFEPA), commended the Female Parliamentary Caucus for their efforts in advancing women’s issues in parliament. She emphasized the significance of the caucus in providing a platform for women to address national concerns.
Madam Sylvia O. Blyden urged female MPs to emulate their male counterparts in eloquence, encouraging more women to join politics and parliament. She stressed the importance of sensitivity to gender issues and called on female MPs to demonstrate their capability, inspiring other women to pursue political careers.
Mohammed Kapuwa, UK representative, echoed the call for female MPs to excel in their roles, setting an example for younger women to follow.
Madam Finda Frazer, Director of Parliament, pledged parliament’s support and openness to fostering women’s empowerment. She emphasized the collective responsibility to build a society that supports and empowers women.
Honourable Sahr Matthew Nyuma, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, along with Hon. Abdul Kargbo, decorated and inaugurated the executive members of the Female Caucus in parliament. Among the members inaugurated were Honourable Rose, Rebecca Yei Kamara, and Rossy Kanu.
Mr. Jack Burns expressed his pleasure in seeing many strong women gathered in one place, highlighting the importance of including women in the development process. He urged equal opportunities for women and girls, citing examples from the British High Commission.
Hon. Sahr Matthew Nyuma praised the government’s efforts to increase female representation in national politics and parliament. He called upon the executive members to elevate their efforts in advocating for women’s affairs in parliament and the nation. SEG/18/3/2024