Monrovia – The Women’s NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) commends President Joseph Nyumah Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Kpang Koung for their dedication to women’s empowerment and their efforts to ensure significant representation of women within their administration.
By Rachel Saykiamien, contributing writer
In a statement released on Monday, WONGOSOL highlighted its observation regarding the ratio and proportion of women appointed in the current government.
“According to our recent analysis, 62 (24%) of key positions have been filled by women, while men occupy 201 (76%) out of the 263 nominations made by the Boakai-Koung administration,” stated WONGOSOL in the release.
“However, we urge President Boakai to further prioritize the inclusion of women in key roles to bridge the gender disparities persisting over the decades and to adhere to section 4.5 of the new elections law, which stipulates a 30% threshold for women’s leadership.”
Furthermore, WONGOSOL emphasized that enhanced women’s representation enables them to advocate not only for their interests but also for those of girls, children, youths, and other marginalized demographics.
Over the years, WONGOSOL has actively campaigned for women to assume higher positions in both public and private sectors. As part of its initiatives, the organization identifies potential, qualified, and capable women and recommends them for roles where they can advance the women’s agenda.
In this context, WONGOSOL recommended the now acting Minister of Defense, Geraldine George, and Deputy Health Minister Martha Morris for their current roles in public institutions.
The organization highlighted the potential of individuals like Madam Meapeh Kou Gono, who it believes is capable of serving in local government positions. Consequently, WONGOSOL endorsed Madam Gono for the position of Superintendent of Nimba County, citing her competence and the capacity of other deserving women to represent the nation effectively within the local government structure.
“We take pride in the fact that some of the women we recommended have been appointed by the President to serve their country, which is a significant achievement for us. However, we advocate for the elevation of certain positions, including the Defense Minister’s, who is still in an acting capacity,” stated the organization. “As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we urge the government to officially appoint Madam George as Minister to enable her to fulfill her responsibilities effectively. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with this administration to amplify the voices of women both within Liberia and globally.”