In the Comoros, the country is preparing to organize a presidential election with six declared candidates, all men. For the three governorship positions at stake, there are 26 candidates including only one woman, Chamina Ben Mohamed, an executive of the ruling party who aims to lead the island of Mohéli. His singular presence within this largely male group raises questions in Comorian society. Why are so few women running for office in Comoros? Is it a lack of skills, a discriminatory law or a still-prevailing machismo?
2 mins
With our correspondent in Moroni, Abdallah Mzembaba
In practice, no legal provision hinders women’s candidacy for elections. But on the ground, the reality differs significantly, as Me Maliza Youssouf Saïd Soilihi points out:
“ In fact, this lack can be attributed to various factors such as cultural barriers, gender stereotypes which persist despite the fact that we have had a woman as governor of the island of Ngazidja. Ultimately, the responsibility for promoting equitable participation rests with Comorian society as a whole, political parties and government institutions.. »
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In 2017, the Hadjira law aimed at promoting the participation of women in politics in the Comoros, in particular by establishing a quota of 30% of elective positions in their favor, was adopted. But six years later, it has still not been promulgated by the head of state.
Hissane Guy, socio-activist, calls for collective awareness: “ Men are not ready to give way to women. So, we should fight even more. ” She insists : “ And from now on, we should work hard to ensure that the Hadjira law is promulgated, because we do not have the power. We take power. Are we, Comorian women, ready to face them? To take this power? We must give ourselves the means. »
Although Chamina Ben Mohamed is an exception, his candidacy is poorly received. For example, the current governor of Mohéli declared in the media that he was not ready to vote for a woman.
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