Women achieve historic representation in Sao Tome and Principe parliament
18 women now sit in the 55-seat National Assembly, the highest number ever.
18 women now serve in Sao Tome and Principe's 55-seat National Assembly, marking the highest female representation in the country's history. This achievement follows the 2022 Parity Law, which mandates a minimum 40% quota for each gender on candidate lists for elected positions.
Vera Cravid, the Minister of Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, and Women's Rights, stated that this represents women's increased participation in defining societal issues and decisions. Many newly elected female deputies expressed determination to fulfill the expectations of the Santomean people and contribute to the nation's progress.
Some elected representatives have already identified key issues for parliamentary debate, including the rise in violence against women and the health challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. The XIII Legislature's opening also saw a female majority in the National Assembly's Standing Committee, with Nilda da Mata elected president unanimously by all 55 deputies present.
Why it mattersThe new parliament composition directly affects all citizens by ensuring more diverse perspectives in lawmaking and policy decisions.