Member for Central Kieta Magdalene Toroansi said failure to ensure this had resulted in fewer women contesting elections in the region.
She said women had been denied their rights to participate and contribute to the decision-making process in Bougainville.
“Women are mothers of society and, through their everyday association with the communities, they understand better the problems faced by the people and the solutions to these problems,” Toroansi said.
She said the autonomous government must work closely with women, churches and youths in order to tackle increasing law and order and health problems.
“Autonomous Bougainville Government members alone cannot run this government,” she said. “They need the community’s support and contribution, especially those from women.”
She called on the Bougainville women to stand firm and support their women candidates who will contest the regional elections next year.
“As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure we do our jobs right,” Toroansi said. “We also have to understand the people and their needs.”
