Political Parties and Women ‘S Participation in Politics in West Africa

Abstract

Women in African states have contributed immensely to nation-building and socio-economic
 development of their various societies. Despite, it has not translated into more women
 occupying political leadership positions in West Africa. The article critically analysed the role
 political parties play in preventing women from occupying political leadership positions.
 Political parties in some West African states are not committed to gender equality as leadership
 structure, nomination of candidates and campaign financing are biased against women. Lack
 of internal democracy and male-style politics dominate party affairs which limit women
 participation in politics and a confrontational approach instead of seeking collaboration and
 consensus is also relevant for understanding this scenario. Patriarchy dominates the activities
 of political parties thereby limiting women which further perpetuate gender inequality in
 politics. It recommended that political parties should implement proportional
 representation/quota system to encourage more women to contest for elective posts.