Women leaders call for more female politicians

“We believe and trust that the newly appointed female Prime Minister of Sri Lanka has the efficiency and intelligence to excel in her role," said Dr. (Mrs.) Sudarshini Fernandopulle, former Member of Parliament, during a press conference today at the Dr. N.M. Perera Center, organized by the WILLClub (Women in Learning and Leadership).

Additionally, Dr. Fernandopulle stated, "As the Minister of Women’s Affairs, we are confident that she will make decisions that empower women's participation in politics."

Dr. Fernandopulle represented the Forum of Women MPs and emphasized that Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya is also a member of their forum. She stated that they are committed to working together as women, without considering party affiliations or any other divisions.

The WILL Club of Sri Lanka, consisting of members from various political parties, along with individuals and organizations, held a press conference with a key focus on increasing women’s representation in decision-making structures, particularly in the upcoming General Election.

During the meeting, they stated that women make up 51% of Sri Lanka’s population and 56% of those eligible to vote from the voter registration lists.They emphasized that the country must leverage the knowledge, experience, skills, and resilience of Sri Lankan women in its governance.

In the press conference held today, they submitted five primary demands to all political parties.

* Nominate at least 50% women for parliamentary seats.

* Following the General Election, ensure the allocation of 50% of the national list slots to women.

* Appoint women to leadership positions, including within party structures, where women participate in decision-making as organized spokespersons.

* Take necessary steps to ensure that the government appoints women to decision-making roles within government structures, laying the foundation for an inclusive society.

* Demand that Parliament hold local and provincial elections as soon as possible and provide the 25% quota for women that is already mandated by provincial and local election laws.

In addition to Dr. Fernandopulle, ten women leaders who have already served as politicians and are planning to contest in the upcoming General Election and Local Government Elections were also in attendance.

Ms. Swasthika Arulingam of the People’s Struggle Alliance (Jana Aragala Sandanaya), Ms. Uma Chandrapragash of Samagi Jana Balawegaya, Ms. Kumari Pathirage of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, Ms. S. Mazeena Bucker of the United National Party, Ms. Lihini Fernando of Samagi Jana Balawegaya, Ms. M. Shiromi Cooray of Samagi Jana Balawegaya, Ms. E.M. Indra Irangani of the United National Party, Ms. Uluwaduge Sadamali of the United National Party, Ms. Chandrika De Zoysa of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, and Ms. Nirosha Athukorala of Samagi Jana Balawegaya participated in the event.