Monetization of politics remains a challenge to many women

14 March 2026, 3:39 pm

By Desire Ocen and Sarah Ejang

In a recent engagement organized by Action for Development (ACFODE) at the Amolatar district headquarters, Hon. Etap Ketty voiced significant concerns regarding the monetization of politics and its impact on women’s participation in leadership roles.

Speaking on behalf of the Health and Community Base Secretary, Etap emphasized that the current allocation of 20% funds for local revenue is merely a “drop in the ocean” when it comes to fostering tangible development in Amolatar.

Despite numerous council meetings aimed at addressing these challenges, progress remains stagnant.

One of the most pressing issues highlighted by Etap is the financial barrier that hampers many women from competing effectively in elections.

The recently concluded elections showcased this stark reality, as numerous female candidates were unable to secure victory due to insufficient financial backing.

This observation underscores the broader systemic issue where monetization acts as a gatekeeper, hindering capable women from attaining leadership positions.

Furthermore, Etap raised alarming concerns regarding the upcoming 2026 elections, citing irregularities linked to certain presiding officers in Acii and Opali subcounties.

Such practices threaten the integrity of the electoral process and the aspirations of women seeking to engage in politics.

Amidst these challenges, Etap expressed gratitude towards ACFODE for providing training that has empowered her to serve as a counselor for two terms, reinforcing the importance of support structures for women in governance.

During the event, the district community development officer, Otile Patrick, urged constituents to demonstrate respect for female politicians, highlighting that the use of abusive language can disproportionately undermine their credibility and authority.

He commended the female councilors present for their eloquence and composure, which reflect their commitment to effective leadership.

Participants such as Casphine Kia, an area councilor from Acan Oryema parish, recognized the significance of ACFODE’s timely engagement in instilling confidence and leadership skills.

Kia committed to sharing her newfound knowledge with other women in her jurisdiction, fostering a ripple effect of empowerment within her community.

Similarly, Okori Peter, the chairman of LC III in Acii subcounty, expressed enthusiasm for the leadership skills acquired through ACFODE’s training.

He encouraged fellow councilors to approach their responsibilities with integrity, avoiding a fixation on monetary gains and instead focusing on meaningful dialogue that prioritizes community development. Emphasizing the value of communication, Okori urged councilors to express themselves in their mother tongue during meetings, enhancing clarity and engagement.

Otwang Moses Okello, the regional Program Coordinator for ACFODE, articulated the importance of these engagements in promoting effective service delivery, ensuring that the rights of all individuals—regardless of gender—are upheld.

This initiative aims to document and analyze the barriers faced by women and youth in the electoral process, generating actionable recommendations for district and regional policymakers, including civil society organizations.

The gathering of councilors and Trainers of Trainees (TOTs) from Acii and Opali subcounties signifies a collective effort to dismantle the barriers posed by monetary politics and create a conducive environment for women’s participation in governance.

As women like Hon. Etap Ketty, Casphine Kia, and others continue to strive for leadership in the face of these challenges, ongoing support and advocacy will be crucial in paving the way for a more inclusive political landscape in Amolatar.