Joyce Bawah Mogtari, a Presidential Advisor and member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has brought to light critical issues surrounding the challenges women encounter in Ghana’s political landscape. During her appearance on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show, she discussed findings from a recent report focusing on the abuse faced by women in politics.

Significant Challenges

Mogtari highlighted the high levels of abuse that female politicians endure, noting that this unfortunate reality significantly complicates their participation in politics. She articulated, “We go through a lot, very challenging circumstances,” emphasizing the need for a supportive environment for women in this field.

She pointed out that such hostile experiences not only deter women from engaging in political activities but also exacerbate gender imbalances in leadership positions across the country. “Whatever attempts people make to discourage them… it will push you back into your bedroom,” she stated, underscoring the emotional toll of these challenges.

The Need for Supportive Environments

Mogtari further shared her personal experiences during campaign trails, reflecting on how critical it is for female politicians to have allies in leadership. “Imagine you are the only female” in a room full of male colleagues, she said, noting the additional hardships faced without a supportive supervisor who acknowledges their presence and needs.

Combating Abuse and Creating Change

To address these pressing issues, Mogtari called for increased public education and awareness campaigns aimed at combatting the abuse directed at women in politics. She advocated for the establishment of a respectful political culture that encourages women to step forward and engage in decision-making processes beneficial to national development.