Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has launched a comprehensive policy document designed to define and enhance women’s involvement in the political sphere.
The document, comprising key principles such as the UPC Women’s League Charter, Gender Policy, and Sexual Harassment Policy, is aimed at fostering an inclusive environment that enables the active participation of women in the realm of politics and more.
The very essence of women’s engagement in political and economic institutions, which encompasses their participation in bureaucracies, policy-making bodies, and representative organizations, is at the heart of this initiative.
The event, held at the UPC headquarters in Kampala, witnessed the esteemed presence of Betty Among, Minister for Gender, Labor, and Social Development (MGLSD), who graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Minister Among emphasized the significance of women aligning with political parties as a gateway to political engagement and contesting elections, stating, “Political parties are of utmost importance, as they are where power resides.”
Furthermore, she urged women to unite and consistently engage in politics, underscoring their pivotal role in the economic advancement of the nation and in ensuring effective service delivery. Minister Among also drew attention to the upcoming Women’s League elections, encouraging introspection about readiness.
Discussing the concepts delineated in the policy document, Among recognized the remarkable contributions women have made to the work undertaken by the Ministry of Gender, Labor, and Social Development. She stressed the importance of political parties and organizations adopting such policies to support women’s participation.
Notably, the event also welcomed active female politicians, united under the “Inter-party Women’s Platform (IWOP),” an umbrella organization encompassing women from various political parties, transcending ideological boundaries. The platform’s primary objective is to mobilize and exchange ideas concerning challenges, including sexual harassment.
Hajjat Aisha Waligo, President of the Democratic Party (DP) Women’s League, attended the ceremony and emphasized the vital role of women in politics in delivering essential services and catalyzing community development.
UPC President Jimmy Akena pledged his unwavering support for the Women’s League within the party, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring their full participation in politics across the country. He cited previous support given to Dr. Eunice Apio Atuko, the Women legislator of Oyam North constituency in Oyam district, during a recent by-election, as an example of his dedication to the cause.