Equality in political representation will not come from these reforms alone, says the Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare when speaking during the official opening of the Women’s conference at the FFA Conference centre on Tuesday.
“We must change our mindsets, our attitudes, our perspectives from the very core of our society.
“Meaning – from the gardens at the grassroots of our villages, to the highest levels of our government,” the Prime Minister said.
He also reiterated the Democratic Coalition for Change Government’s (DCCGs) mission for the country “to create a God fearing, peaceful, united and progressive Solomon Islands, led by ethical, accountable, respected and credible leadership that enhances peoples’ cultural, social and economic wellbeing.”
He added that this position, as it relates to the governance and political representation, suggests that every sector of the Solomon Islands society is catered to and adequately represented in parliament.
“This is an ambitious objective, and undoubtedly, no one government can achieve it alone.
“It requires the co-operation and collaboration between leaders, government ministries, donor and development partners, faith-based organizations, community groups, civil society, traditional leaders and chiefs.
“This responsibility falls on all of us,” Mr Sogavare said.
Meanwhile, Mr Sogavare said that the recommendations from the three days conference will inform the direction that the government will consider in its overall review of the Political Parties Integrity Act and the election system, particularly as it concerns women in political participation.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
