HARGEISA , (HargeisaPress) —Human Rights Centre calls on Somaliland Parliament, the government and the political parties to approve quota for women in the upcoming 2017 parliamentary election.
Every year the International Women’s Day is commemorated across the world on 8th March. This year comes while the preparation for elections scheduled to take place in March 2017 are in process. The Parliament and the political parties are discussing on the legal framework for the forthcoming election.
“Quota will help women to increase their political participation, and will contribute in achieving gender parity in elections. The ongoing discussions on new bill for election of the Lower House of the Parliament shall take into account the gender inequality and the numerous impediments hampering women to fully and equally participate in politics. Women shall be involved in the process,” says Guleid Ahmed Jama, chairperson of Human Rights Centre.
Human Rights Center requests the government and the people of Somaliland to strengthen their commitment against gender based violence and gender inequality. Human Rights Centre strongly condemns sexual and gender based violence and calls on the government to pass the Sexual Offences Act, and prohibit female genital mutilation and early marriage.
“The theme for the International Women’s Day 2016 is “Pledge for Parity”. To fulfil this it warrants concrete actions based on willingness and strong commitment,” adds Guleid.
Contact
Mulaho Mohamed Ali
Spokesperson of Human Rights Centre