The meeting discussed strategies and frameworks for women’s political participation and revised bills intended to safeguard the rights of women in the country.

By  Anak Dut

South Sudan women now seek a legal framework to enforce the affirmative action of the 35 percent women’s representation at all levels of governance.

This followed a consultative meeting organized by UN women last week to reflect on the achievements to enhance women’s participation in politics in the coming elections.

The meeting discussed strategies and frameworks for women’s political participation and revised bills intended to safeguard the rights of women in the country.

Speaking at the women’s consultative meeting last week in Juba, Esther Ikere, the Undersecretary for the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare said the Women Empowerment Bill 2024, aims to promote gender equality in the country.

According to her, once the bill is signed into law it would establish a legal framework for the enforcement of the minimum 35% of women’s representation at all levels of governance in private and public sectors.

She continued that it will act in accordance with the constitution of South Sudan amended 2011.

“Among other bills,  the Anti-GBV bill is a bill that performs and consolidates the law relating to gender-based violence reducing domestic violence, gender violence and offense,” she explained.

On her part, Mary Nawai, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs said that women in South Sudan face more challenges in politics than men, stressing that the society in which they are living does not give equal rights.

She called on her colleagues to create civic space, join political parties as well as take part in the upcoming electoral process.

“There is a lot of criticism about women in politics in our society. “

“There is a need to carry out sensation and break the barriers of women being taken only as housewives. Women should speak out and advocate for their rights,” Ms. Nawai said.

On a positive note, she also appealed to the government to address the root causes of gender-based violence to change the language of violence against women in the communities.

Meanwhile, Dr. Rukaya Muhammad, the Country Representative of UN Women called for the advocacy for the outstanding laws that support the advancement of gender equality.

She urged the parties to the peace agreement to adhere to the representation of the 35% women representation in the unity government.

“I urge young women to boldly claim their rights and advocate for change,” Dr. Rukaya stated. According to her, women’s participation is very essential for achieving substantial change in women’s positions.

She mooted the formation of alliances and fostering inclusive systems that empower every woman to strive.

“There is a need to carry out sensation and break the barriers of women being taken only as housewives. Women should speak out and advocate for their rights,” said Mary Nawai, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs.