Former Liberian leader condemns low women’s representation, urging enforcement of a stalled gender quota to ensure inclusive governance.

Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf condemned the legislature’s low female representation—11 out of 103 seats—as a national embarrassment, stressing that women’s exclusion undermines development and peacebuilding despite their historic roles in ending the civil war and electing Africa’s first female president. She highlighted systemic barriers and male resistance to power-sharing, calling for enforcement of a long-delayed 30% gender quota, noting past efforts were weakened or blocked. Advocates say women remain sidelined in decision-making, used for outreach but not leadership, and emphasize that inclusive governance is vital for effective policies and lasting progress.