While on the campaign trail, politicians say anything in order to get the votes they require to win the election. But when politicians are incepted into office, they quickly forget the promises made to voters. In short, campaign promises are probably not meant to be actualized.
This is what Women’s groups in Sierra Leone have found out. They have expressed dissatisfaction with President Ernest Koroma’s failure to fulfill his promise to ensure that women acquire thirty percent quota in all aspects of governance in Sierra Leone.
During the celebration of International Women’s Day in Moyamba Town, Southern Sierra Leone, in 2010, the President apologised to women in the country for being neglected over the years in the scheme of things. He promised his government was going to right the wrongs by giving women the expected affirmative action. However, the promise has turned out to be a complete mirage.
Now, women groups are voicing out their feelings. The Head of 50-50 Group, Dr. Fatu Taqi, said the women of Sierra Leone were disappointed that President Koroma reneged on his promise. He dissolved parliament without any bill being enacted for the thirty percent quota for women’s participation and inclusion in politics.
Dr. Taqi noted that since President Koroma came into office, he kept hopes alive at every turn by assuring the nation of his government’s commitment towards awarding the minimum thirty percent quota representation to ensure that women’s voices are heard at the highest levels of decision-making.
The notable female activist continued, “As we move towards the 2018 elections, and as the President is about to leave office, the aspirations of women for this elections have been dampened and we acknowledge the positive strides that the president has made in supporting educational achievements for girls and the appointment of female ministers of government and other formal positions”.
She, however, expressed disappointment that the President’s goodwill does not extend to fundamental changes in the law that would undo women’s historic marginalisation in governance. Madam Taqi urged President Koroma to take all necessary steps to make good on his promise before he leaves office in March next year.
