Gender Bias in Ghanaian Politics: The Unjust Exclusion of Ms. Doris Acharibia
A petition submitted to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has brought to the fore the issue of gender bias in Ghanaian politics. The petition protests the exclusion of Ms. Doris Acharibia, the only female aspirant, from the final list of three nominees for the District Chief Executive (DCE) position in the Kassena-Nankana West District.
Ms. Acharibia, a dedicated party member since 1994, possesses 29 years of experience working with women and the girl child. Her exclusion from the final selection process has raised concerns about the representation of women in governance, despite the party’s commitment to affirmative action and gender balance.
The petition highlights four key reasons why Ms. Acharibia’s candidacy should be reconsidered:
Promoting Gender Inclusion: Her inclusion would serve as a beacon of hope for women and young ladies aspiring to participate in politics and governance.
Breaking Stereotypes: The decision to exclude her reinforces the notion that women do not go far in politics. By reconsidering her candidature, the NDC can debunk this myth and promote an inclusive political landscape.
Proven Commitment and Experience: With 29 years of experience, Ms. Acharibia possesses the requisite skills, leadership capabilities, and vision to contribute significantly to the district’s development.
Strengthening the NDC’s Impact: Her leadership would bolster the party’s influence at the grassroots level by promoting policies and initiatives that enhance the socio-economic development of women, men, youth, and children in the Kassena-Nankana West District.
Ghana has made progress in promoting gender equality in politics, but there is still a long way to go. Women make up only 14% of the 8th parliament . The exclusion of Ms. Acharibia from the final selection process is a stark reminder of the gender bias that persists in Ghanaian politics.
Research has shown that gender bias in politics can perpetuate a “bloody widow discourse” that makes women appear unworthy of power. This discourse is perpetuated through the use of allusions, rhetorical questions, and presuppositions that reinforce unequal gender and power relations.
The petition serves as a call to action for the NDC to reconsider Ms. Acharibia’s candidacy and promote gender inclusion in politics. As Ghana celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, it is essential to recognize the importance of promoting gender equality and inclusive governance in Ghanaian politics.
Below is the full petition:
MARCH 5, 2025
THE NATIONAL CHAIRMAN
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS (NDC)
ACCRA, GHANA
CC: HIS EXCELLENCY JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA
SUBJECT: PETITION FOR JUSTIFICATION OF DENIAL OF THE ONLY WOMAN DCE ASPIRANT IN THE KASSENA-NANKANA WEST DISTRICT RACE
Dear National Chairman,
We write to formally petition the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Vetting Committee regarding the exclusion of Ms. Doris Acharibia, the only female aspirant among twelve contestants, from the final list of three nominees for the District Chief Executive (DCE) position in the Kassena-Nankana West District after the regional vetting exercise.
Ms. Acharibia, a Branch Communications Officer at the Achorbiisi Electoral Area is a committed and dedicated party member since 1994. She presented herself for vetting on January 24, 2025, in Bolgatanga. As the only woman among eleven men from various communities in the district, she represents not only gender diversity but also the values of inclusion, empowerment, and leadership within the NDC. The final selection process, however, overlooked the crucial representation of women in governance, despite the party’s commitment to affirmative action and gender balance.
We, the undersigned, strongly believe that her exclusion is unjust and undermines the principles of fairness and equity, particularly for the following reasons:
1. Promotion of Gender Inclusion: Ms. Acharibia’s inclusion would serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement for women and young ladies aspiring to actively participate in politics and governance.
2. Breaking Stereotypes: The decision to exclude her reinforces the notion that women do not go far in politics. By reconsidering her candidature, the NDC can debunk this myth and promote an inclusive political landscape.
3. Proven Commitment and Experience: With 29 years of experience working with women and the girl child, Ms. Acharibia possesses the requisite skills, leadership capabilities, and vision to contribute significantly to the district’s development.
4. Strengthening the NDC’s Impact: Her leadership would bolster the party’s influence at the grassroots level by promoting policies and initiatives that enhance the socio-economic development of women, men, youth, and children in the Kassena-Nankana West District.
Ms. Acharibia’s exclusion from the final selection contradicts the core values of the NDC, which advocate for gender equality and inclusive governance. Her case must be reviewed to ensure that the principles of fairness, equity, and meritocracy are upheld.
Therefore, we humbly request that the National Vetting Committee and the leadership of the NDC reconsider her candidacy and give her a fair hearing. Her leadership will not only bring positive transformation to the Kassena-Nankana West District but also inspire many young women across Ghana.
We trust in your esteemed leadership to address this matter with the fairness and justice it deserves.
Yours sincerely,
Mr Moses Abana Abiro
(Facts Evidence law)
0246707970
0504874035
Cc:
• His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana
• National Vetting Committee, National Democratic Congress
• Upper East Regional Vetting Committee, National Democratic Congress
• Women Caucus, Parliament of Ghana, Parliament House
• Women’s Wing, National Democratic Congress, Ghana
Released to:
All media, Ghana
