GIZO Market Manager Moffat Maeta has strongly advocated for increased representation of women in Parliament.
This is in response to the official announcement by the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) of the number of women candidates who will be contesting the Joint Election on April 17. A total of 20 women are contesting the National Election and Provincial/City Council Election.
Mr Maeta, who primarily interacts with women at the Gizo Market, emphasized that a significant portion of his time is spent dealing with women, particularly those from surrounding communities who rely on the Gizo market facility for the sale of their produces to support their livelihood.
He acknowledged the Gizo-Kolombangara Constituency as one of the leading constituencies in the Western Province that has elected a female representative.
However, due to a lack of support from Gizo-Kolombangara’s female Parliamentary representative, many women in the constituency are desirous of a leader who will help amplify their voices.
“I would like to acknowledge Lanelle Tanangada for her leadership over the past years. She has been instrumental in addressing women’s issues in this country. However, many women have felt left out in her constituency,” Maeta stated.
Mr Maeta highlighted that the Gizo market accommodates various women vendors who sell food and handicrafts to support themselves and their families.
He expressed that strong support for women in rural communities, especially those who face significant challenges, and encouraged women in constituencies where female candidates are contesting to prioritize issues that affect them by supporting female candidates.
Mr Maeta also urged voters to choose leaders who will effectively represent their interests in Parliament and be their voice.
He called on the next MP for the Gizo-Kolombangara Constituency to construct more accommodations for market vendors, address road development issues and improve water and sanitation.
By Alfred Pagepitu
MASI Stringer/Reporter, Western Province
