Senate President Pro tempore Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence is hoping that her rise to the top job in the legislature will inspire women across the country to enlist into national politics and play meaningful role in the governance process.
Elected Jan 15, to become the second Woman to hold the office in nearly two decades Senator Karnga Lawrence said owe her accomplishment to providence and that her story should encourage more women to seek elective office.
A large majority of Liberians believe that women should have the same chance of being elected to public office as men, a June 2023 Afrobarometer survey shows.
The survey respondents in large number think that women will gain standing in the community if they run for elective office, the poll also indicates women could be criticized or harassed if they pursue political career.
“As a woman, I am much honored to be the first amongst equals in a male-dominated Senate of twenty-seven powerful, influential and experienced men,” she said.
“On this note, I wish to give special recognition to the two powerful, resilient and honorable women from Grand Cape and Gbarpolu counties for standing up with me.
“Today, it is common knowledge that politics in Liberia has very sadly become a no-zone for many Liberian women out of fear of being bullied, maliciously slandered, and intimidated.
“My own story is a classic example of the things women in politics go through on a day-day basis.
“But through it all, I remained internally grateful to God for his many blessings, the resilience and audacity he has given me to persevere.
“It is my fervent hope that women of Liberia are inspired by this accomplishment and step to the occasion as we collectively endeavor to increase the presence of women in the national legislature.”
