Grand Bassa COUNTY – Nov. 3- Naymote Partners for Democratic Development has concluded a three days community dialogue aimed at enhancing women’s political participation and preventing violence against women in electoral processes in Grand Bassa County.
NAYMOTE head of Program, Thor Peace Mahteh-Boyee speaking at the start of the three-day community dialogue training said the dialogues were part of the institution’s efforts to promote women’s political participation and inclusion and support a safe space for women across the county.
According to madam Mahteh-Boyee speaks creating a safe space for women in electoral processes and preventing violence against women during elections remains cardinal to the developmental process of Liberia.
She noted that women participation in politics is beneficial to the community, and society and as well strengthens peace and stability.
“Our institution will ensure that women are prevented from psychological, emotional, and physical violence when they express interest in contesting for political and leadership positions,” Peace noted.
The community dialogues were held under the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP) in partnership with the Embassy of Sweden in Monrovia (SIDA), Irish Aid, the National Elections Commission of Liberia (NEC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and UN Women Liberia.
The dialogues were head in three different communities, namely, Compound one, Yohyah Fare ground, and On your Own in Grand Bassa County from November 3rd to the 4th.
The meetings brought together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds including traditional leaders, political parties, youth groups, women’s groups, media, and persons living with disabilities.
NAYMOTE Program head also added that violence against women in politics is a barrier to women’s political participation, not only as candidates but as voters, party members, and elected or appointed officials that need to be curtailed.
At the end of the dialogues, participants appreciated NAYMOTE-Liberia and Partners for the dialogues conducted, adding that they had enhanced their understanding of the essence of women’s political participation.
“We are placing a premium on eradicating violence against women in elections because it denies them their rights to free and equal participation as well as threatens the legitimacy and sustainability of our democracy.
“ Liberty Party head of the peace Rebecca Zonoe said “
Today is my first time learning about VAWIE/P and the five C’s barriers to women’s leadership and equal political participation, I can assure the organizers of this dialogue that I will use the lessons learned today to increase women’s political participation in our communities,” some of the participants said.
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