Female leaders must be given fair representation in the government, says East Sepik Governor, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
He urged political parties to prioritise gender balance by voting for women in the 2017 National Election.
Sir Michael, speaking as an official guest during the campaign launching of the PNG National Party over the weekend, emphasised empowering female leadership in the country.
In the Constitution there are specific laws and legislations that govern and safeguard the rights of women to participate in politics.
“[The] National Party, including other parties, must be proactive in allowing gender balance,” he said.
But the idea of referencing cultural taboos is restricting women from taking up leadership roles and responsibilities.
Sir Michael reiterated that despite cultural obstacles women must be given fair and equitable representation in parliament.
He said there are great female leaders of the world, thus having inspired by the likes of Margaret Thatcher, Angela Merkel and Indira Gandhi.
National Party leader Kerenga Kua acknowledged the Grand Chief’s message saying the idea to promote and empower female leadership is constitutional.
