Only 15 political parties achieved 50% and above women representation on candidate lists - IEC
The IEC revealed that while women make up the majority of the voters’ roll, they only represent a little over 40% of candidates vying for positions in the upcoming polls, compared to 58.14% of candidates who are men.
FILE: An electoral commission official verifies sealed ballot boxes at the Fordsburg Primary School polling station under the supervision of party delegates in Johannesburg on 1 November 2021. Picture: Emmanuel Croset/AFP
JOHANNESBURG - The Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has revealed that while women make up the majority of the voters’ roll, they only represent a little over 40% of candidates vying for positions in the upcoming polls.
In contrast, candidates who are men represent 58.14% of politicians set to appear on the ballot.
The gender disparity was highlighted by the IEC during a media briefing on Tuesday.
The IEC said only 15 political parties managed to achieve a 50% and above woman representation on their lists.
In total, there are 52 parties that will be on the ballot.
The IEC also indicated that 15 of the candidates are 18 years old and will also be first time voters.
On the other side of the generation palette, 17 candidates are aged 80 years and older.