Maried Louise Milne’s Historic Entry into Vanuatu Politics
In the recent national election in Vanuatu, Marie Louise Milne became the sole female Member of Parliament, quickly establishing her presence in the political arena.
Shortly after the electoral officials confirmed her victory on January 16, which alleviated concerns over an all-male parliament, Milne publicly advocated for the inclusion of a female minister in the forthcoming government.
“A woman too has her place at the national level,” she expressed to ABC News.
On the first day of parliamentary sessions, Milne was among the 52 MPs who gathered. The parliament elected Leaders Party MP Jotham Napat, a former foreign minister, to serve as Vanuatu’s new prime minister without opposition.
Mr. Napat, a seasoned former director of the Meteorology Department, is expected to announce his cabinet choices soon.
Milne argued last week that her election provides a unique opportunity for women’s representation in government.
“It would be beneficial to recognize the voice of women by appointing a ministry to the only female member of parliament, ensuring balance in the national government’s executive,” she stated.
Her call has garnered support from human rights and gender equality advocates, who are keen on measures that encourage women to become involved in politics.
Vanuatu’s Ongoing Challenges
As Vanuatu continues to navigate recovery from a devastating magnitude-7.3 earthquake, advocates emphasize the need for male politicians to support women’s participation in governance.
“Men in political parties must create opportunities for our mothers, sisters, wives, and daughters,” said Wilson Toa, director of Balance of Power, a group promoting women’s representation in politics.
Voters are hopeful that the new parliament will foster stability following reforms aimed at breaking the cycle of unstable leadership. The new government faces substantial post-disaster reconstruction efforts, particularly after the earthquake’s impact on Port Vila’s central business district.
Prime Minister Napat acknowledged the challenges ahead in his inaugural address, encouraging unity among Vanuatu’s citizens to collaborate for national progress.
Breaking Barriers for Women in Politics
Proud of her historic position, Ms. Milne assured that her gender would not hinder her political journey. “Being the only female member of parliament in a male-dominated environment will not be an issue for me,” she claimed.
Despite facing an underrepresentation in the January elections, with only seven female candidates among 217, Milne’s election reflects a growing desire for women leaders.
Despite this historic achievement, challenges remain. Ms. Milne highlighted the financial and domestic barriers that deterred many women from contesting elections.
Looking to the Future
Ms. Milne expressed her commitment to addressing the difficulties faced by women in Vanuatu. “As one of the most vulnerable countries globally, we confront numerous challenges regarding recovery, and it’s saddening to see only one woman in parliament,” she lamented.
She urged women not to lose hope, advocating for greater female representation in future elections. “I encourage all women to not give up, so by the 2029 election, we can see more women in parliament.”
