THE country’s first women’s political party was formally launched yesterday at the Honiara Hotel.
This is the first time in the country’s political history that a women’s party was established since Solomon Islands gain its independence in 1978.
The party is called ‘Twelve Pillars to Peace and Prosperity Party’ (TP4).
A group of like-minded women leaders at all levels of society collaborate and formed the 12 pillars to peace and prosperity party.
The founder and the interim president of the party Delma Nori said the party is formed to provide a channel for mobilization of women and men who believe in a democratic process that is gender friendly.
‘’And which takes steps towards the promotion of women participation in the nation development endeavors’, in partnership with other sections of the nation community,’’ she said.
Ms Nori said 51 percent of the national populations are women that are increasing.
However the percentage continues almost unchanged beyond five years of age due to drop in infant mortality, leaving a net growth rate of girls over boys at 2 to 1.
Ms Nori said TP4 recognizes in any efforts to set free women from the trench of culture apathy, the party will require the participation of men and youths with the conviction to give women a chance to participate in nation building.
The interim president highlight the party fore-most concern is the absence of gender friendly policies that continues to deny women opportunities to participate fully in the country’s political process.
Ms Nori said absence of women representation in the national parliament and difficult to win parliamentary elections are clear demonstrations of culture obstacles that exist in our so-called democracy.
“We are fighting to convince our nation that women participation in our parliamentary process is an obligation that must be recognized by our population,” she said.
Ms Nori added that the party’s hope in this coming election will be to retain at least five women to parliament.
“Such number will allow the party founders and supporters to develop and strengthen the organization towards building new linkages with voters throughout the country”.
“We want to see a society in which there is equity in sharing resources-not only across the population but across gender that women deserve a better deal,” she said.
Ms Nori said that TP4 is dedicated to provide an environment that promotes all citizens to participation to the fullest in building a peaceful, united and a prosperous Solomon Islands.
A former public servant who is the guest speaker at the launching, John Saemana advices the first women’s party that in achieving its manifestos, it must go back to where it begins.
Mr Saemana said that all parties highlights the same issues but never implement it which is a challenege to TP4.
However Mr Saemana encourages women to fight for themselves and stand on their current policy.
The first women’s party will later release to the public the party’s policy platform for this year’s national parliament elections.
BY TRIXIE CARTER
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