Affirmative Action Coalition calls on joint transition teams to ensure the inclusion of legally mandated women’s quotas on committees
The Affirmative Action Law Coalition has voiced its disappointment over the failure to meet the women’s appointment quotas outlined in the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, regarding the newly inaugurated transition teams of both the current and incoming governments.
According to Section 14 of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121), at least 30% of all presidential appointments must be women. However, the joint composition of the transition team, formed by both governments, falls short of this requirement, as it includes only four women out of a 23-member team, representing just 16%.
Additionally, the Coalition expressed concern that the newly established anti-corruption team, announced by the incoming government, is entirely male, with no women included.
In a statement signed by Sheila Minka-Premo, Convener of the Affirmative Action Law Coalition, the group emphasized that this blatant disregard for gender equity in decision-making contradicts the core principles of gender equality and inclusivity embedded in the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act.
It further pointed out that research has shown diverse teams tend to be more effective and make better decisions, reinforcing the importance of ensuring women’s representation in government appointments.
The Coalition is calling on both the current and incoming governments to address this oversight immediately and to adhere to the legally mandated gender quotas. Ensuring women’s representation, it argues, is crucial for setting a strong example of gender equality and diversity in leadership roles.