Source: The Ethiopian Herald
Scholars argue that though democratic and participatory election immensely benefits all, it affords women the cream of the cake.
The scholars corroborate their line of reasoning with the claim that women are highly committed to the mapping out and execution of national and regional policies that address the socio-economic and political hurdles besetting women, children and disadvantaged groups. Women are particularly effective in promoting committed and genuine governments.
Experiences drawn from countries, where things are facilitated for women to pop up into the leadership position via the ballot box, corruption is kept at bay. Women are strongly committed to peace building, as they often disproportionately suffer the consequences of armed conflict.
When women are involved in reconstruction and reconciliation, efforts sink roots more quickly. The sustenance of the efforts is ensured. By leaving the door wide open for women to participate in the democratization process it is possible to stop conflicts before they begin. Women are strongly linked to positive developments in education, infrastructure and health standards up to grassroots level. Where rates of gender development and empowerment are higher, human rates of development and standards of living are also higher.
This nation has scheduled a general election for the upcoming May. It is a right moment for political parties to vie and debate to get more seats in Parliament. Parties aspire to win the election and form a government. In this regard, many people would like to inquire, "What does this years election have in store for women?"
To find out residents' take on the matter, this reporter had approached various individuals.
Marta Kassa, a member of Coalition for Unity and Democracy (Kinijit) as well as one of the contesting candidates for a seat in the House of Peoples Representatives, has this to say: "The Constitution has entitled us universal suffrage that enables all women to participate in the process. In my view, after the 1997 E.C general election, women have become reluctant to partake in elections."
According to Marta, the purpose of elections should not only be wining the favour of the majority but also promoting the participation of all segments of potential electors. The incumbent must recognize that it is through the ballot-box that the power baton must be transferred.
Marta extends saying, "Every country deserves to have the best possible leader. That means women have to be given a chance to compete. If they are not allowed to compete in the electoral process, then the countries are really robbing themselves of a great deal of talent."
According to her, the capabilities of women is on part with men if not better. Rather, women have the upper hand on economic matters. Sadly, however, they do not have media exposure for current affairs.
"I have participated in the last three general elections representing my party, Coalition for Unity and Democracy (Kinijit), though I did not manage to win any one of them. But I am grateful for the opportunity. Emerging competent and developing determination, through time, I hope we could win."
She went on to say the Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) is playing down the participation of some women that are not in its folds. "I think that doesn't work! It has to mend its ways."
She added this nation as a whole should be aboard the democratization process that is wafting across its land. My party Coalition for Unity and Democracy does give due recognition to women.
"Women in particular and citizens who took election card should cast a ballot at the upcoming election. You see election plays a vital function on spurring the nation for ward in realizing participation for coexistence."
Yeshi Wolde Mariam is a resident in the capital that ekes out a living as a government employee. Regarding women and the election, she related the following to this reporter lately. " Women must also be active participants in the democratization process, Election today is quite different to the gloomy old days of exploitation, double suppression and marginalization. No doubt, many had paid a life sacrifice to the new lease of life citizens are enjoying today. Today there is more sunlight than yesterday. Tomorrow must be brighter than today. " I wish my grand children an affluent life. To effect this, there must be a conducive situation in place that takes all women on board. In my view, election is one manifestation of democracy. Women around the world often face daunting social, economic and political challenges. This sad episode could be averted by an unflagging fight and commitment on the political arena. Women participation is key for the sustenance of the country's peace and democracy.
" In light of this, I am eagerly awaiting the election day as a bright spot in our history . Election means a lot to us."
Yewgnesh Kedir EPRDF Women L:eague Head said election to women is a matter of life and death, for without peace, the first victims would be women and children. "We could witness this fact from our past experience and experiences around the world."
According to Yewgnesh, democracy is not a self-running system. It stands on complex political institutions that reflect the political power of the citizenry. The challenge is keeping the population constructively engaged in the democratic process observing successful, free and fair elections.
"We, women should display great push in mobilizing the whole mass in the democratic election process. My party embraces women who want to join it of their volition."
She further noted: "At this juncture it is appropriate to reminisce the fact that combatant women across the nation had fought tooth and nail with tyrants to ignite the spark of freedom and democracy. They had payed a lot to secure universal suffrage. The league does not only aspire to render the election free and fair but also participatory. The participation of women is crucial for all nations and nationalities of Ethiopia."
Realizing participation could provide a solid barometer for measuring democratic participation. But beyond electoral processes, it is just as vital to the health of a democracy that ordinary citizens and women are meaningfully involved in the discourse concerning issues affecting their lives and country, she added.
For various reasons, the number of women beneficial from all development activities has not yet reached the required level. Towards the furtherance of a fast and sustainable development of this land, each woman should be a game setter in the election process. Every woman must ensure her voice is heard and concerned on as to who must hold the power baton.
In my view, women are ready for the upcoming election to elect any party which respects the constitutional supremacy of the land!"
By Mengisteab Teshome