Empowering women: A push for increased female MPs in upcoming elections

The representation of women in Ghana's Fourth Republic Parliament has remained notably low.

According to Table 1, the percentage of female parliamentarians elected in the 2020 election 40/275(14.55%) marked the highest figure since 1996.

Yet, it falls significantly below the global and sub-Saharan averages of 26.7 per cent and 27.1 per cent respectively. Without deliberate measures, this percentage is likely to decrease by the upcoming elections on December 7.

While both the NDC and the NPP have nominated 39 and 36 female parliamentary candidates (FPCs) respectively for the 2024 elections, indicating a higher number compared to the 2020 figures, the expected representation of female MPs following the upcoming elections is anticipated to decrease.

Female candidates

The question is: Why should this be the case? The increased number of FPCs suggests a likelihood of electing more female MPs. However, the dynamics are different this time. First, many incumbent FPCs lost their primaries in their party strongholds to male in-party contestants. Consequently, these seats are expected to be occupied by male in-party counterparts.

Second, a significant number of seats being contested by FPCs are not within their parties' traditional strongholds where victory would be more easily attainable. For instance, out of the 36 seats to be contested by NPP FPCs, only 13 (36.11%) are within their stronghold, while the corresponding figure for the NDC is 9 out of 39 (23%).

This suggests that many FPCs are contesting primarily to bolster the votes for their party's presidential candidates.

Third, in five constituencies – Ada, Agona-East, Awutu-Senya-East, Nkoranza-South, and Okaikwei-North – both the NDC and NPP have fielded FPCs. This means that five female candidates from the two parties are already ‘out of the contest’, as only one candidate from each constituency can be elected MP.

Fourth, a relatively high number of seats are situated in the strongholds of opposing parties. For instance, 17 out of the 39 (43.59%) seats to be contested by NDC FPCs and 10 out of the 36 seats contested by NPP FPCs (27.78%) are within their opponent's stronghold.

Finally, a significant number of seats are in swing constituencies that are likely to sway in any direction, albeit potentially favouring the NDC, which has 10 seats in favourable swing constituencies and 3 in unfavourable ones. For the NPP, the corresponding figures are 6 and 7 for favourable and unfavourable swing constituencies, respectively.

Swing

In this context, an unfavourable swing refers to any seat a party has held between 25 per cent and 50 per cent of the time in previous elections, while anything below this threshold is considered an opponent's stronghold.

 Conversely, a favourable swing denotes any seat the party has held between 51 per cent and 85 per cent of the time in past elections, with anything above this range regarded as the party's stronghold.

What the parties should focus on is that, in the lead-up to the elections, both parties should mobilise their supporters to rally behind their respective FPCs in the swing constituencies.

The NDC should concentrate its efforts on Agona West, Awutu Senya West, Techiman North, Dadekotopon, Okaikwei North, Krowor, Ahanta West and Shama, etc. Similarly, the NPP should direct its focus towards Adenta, Prestea Huni Valley, Ejura Sekyeredumase, Ayensuano, Asikuma Odoben Brakwa, Mfantseman, Wassa East, Gomoa Central, and other areas where they have a significant presence.

It is important for Ghana to strategically consider methods to enhance female MPs in the medium to long term. One approach could involve the implementation of reserved seats within parliament exclusively for women, a system already established in countries like Rwanda and Uganda.

Additionally, legislated candidate quotas could be enforced, requiring political parties to include a minimum percentage of female candidates on their electoral lists, as observed in countries such as Argentina and France.

Alternatively, voluntary party quotas could be adopted, with political parties voluntarily undertaking internal regulations to ensure a certain percentage of women candidates, a practice prevalent in Sweden and Norway.

The effectiveness of quota systems in increasing female representation has been demonstrated, evidenced by Rwanda's high percentage of women in parliament due to its reserved seats system. Quotas can expedite gender equity by ensuring the presence of women in political domains.

Quota

However, the implementation of quotas may face resistance and criticism. Challenges include arguments that quotas undermine meritocracy and discriminate against men.

Moreover, the effectiveness of quotas can be obstructed by the political system, cultural attitudes, and the commitment of political parties to gender equality.

Enhancing female parliamentary representation in Ghana is crucial for several reasons. First, women constitute a significant portion of Ghana’s population, and it is vital to ensure their perspectives and experiences are adequately represented in the decision-making process.

Increased female parliamentary representation can also lead to the formulation and execution of more inclusive policies that cater for the needs of all citizens.

Furthermore, greater female representation in political leadership positions can serve as an inspiration for young girls and women, motivating them to pursue careers in politics and other male-dominated fields. Ultimately, promoting gender equality in parliament is essential for fostering a more just and equitable society in Ghana.

The writer is a political scientist