Defamatory attacks on social media targeting female Members of Parliament are creating barriers for women aspiring to take on political leadership roles. This pressing issue was brought to light by Lenora Qereqeretabua, the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, amidst ongoing discussions about the negative impact of online harassment.
Qereqeretabua pointed out that while social media platforms can foster positive engagement, they often amplify hostile sentiments directed disproportionately at women leaders. Instead of confronting online vitriol, she prefers to prioritize her responsibilities. “I don’t look at it. It’s really important for me because I have a lot more important things to do. There’s a saying that people will throw stones at ripe mangoes and so forth. I’m not affected,” she stated, highlighting her resilience in the face of such challenges.
The Assistant Minister expressed concern that many capable women may hesitate to run for elections due to the toxic attention faced by women in politics. “So I think it’s discouraging, absolutely discouraging. When we try to encourage more women in political leadership, we’ll have the municipal council elections happening soon, and I hope that many women will put their hands up to stand for their local council elections and then for national leadership positions,” she added, encouraging participation despite the obstacles.
Echoing Qereqeretabua’s sentiments, Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya noted that online abuse significantly undermines women’s leadership efforts. “He or she may have wanted to, but with all this vitriol that women are facing online, the abuse translates into discouraging voters from supporting women. So it has a huge effect and a cost,” she remarked, emphasizing the detrimental effects of such negativity on the election process.
Tabuya underscored the availability of support for women facing these challenges, aiming to provide guidance and encouragement. The call for more women to step into leadership roles remains strong, with hopes that they will overcome these societal pressures and contribute meaningfully to political discourse.
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