On the 20th October, NIEC held a conference to discuss participation of women in political parties and their leadership.
The participants to the conference were drawn from CSOs and political parties.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Khadijah Osoble, a commissioner with NIEC, stated that the conference was meant to enhance women’s political leadership and to elevate more women to political office.
Ms. Osoble called on CSOs to play their part in ensuring that 2020 One person One vote election is feasible. She identified voter education and sensitization as specific areas of partnership with CSOs so that the public and especially women can be sensitized on the importance of their participation in the forthcoming elections. She noted that its a step towards democracy and away from the divisive, clan based system.
The participants were also taken through important topics related to elections such as political parties, rights and roles of women in elections and the electoral law. This was facilitated by NIEC staff members.
The participants to the conference noted the importance of having the electoral law in place within the stipulated time frame and one which reflects the need of the citizenry.
The electoral law is currently under review by the Parliamentary ad hoc committee and once in place will assist NIEC and all stakeholders in conducting the forthcoming 2020 universal suffrage elections.
The electoral commission had previously conducted conferences and workshops meant to sensitize the public, especially women, of their roles in Political parties.