1. Women attaining leadership roles in political parties Presentation by: Perry Aritua Executive Director Women’s Democracy Network-Uganda Chapter Email: paritua@wdnuganda.org Website: www.wdnuganda.org

2. How do women attain leadership roles in political parties? What is leadership? The ability to organize or direct affairs of a group towards achievement of the group’s goal. For a political party, it is important to have a democratic leader who ensures that members of the group are involved in making decisions on how to achieve their goals. A leader who exercises democratic leadership is answerable to the party, follows the laws and guidelines of the party, consults and makes decisions informed by ideas from the group, does not discriminate against the different interest groups in the party.

3. Cont’d Women can attain leadership roles in political parties through the following ways: Women striving for leadership positions in the party should be knowledgeable about the laws, regulations and guidelines of the party. This enables them to compete from an informed perspective; Work with members of the party and develop a support base. Maintain communication and a good relationship with the support base;

4. Cont’d Must be assertive and principled to earn respect from peers and party leaders-Hon. Cecilia Ogwal-District woman MP, Dokolo district, Uganda; Must enjoy grassroots support of party members so as to get elected within party organs; Must be exposed internally and nationally in order to contribute constructive ideas to the party; Must have a niche on certain issues- Hon. Winnie Byanyima had a niche for fighting against corruption and women’s rights; Hon. Miria Matembe known for advocating for the rights of women and girls. This earns one media attraction and reference when debates on certain issues are taking place; Must be knowledgeable and conversant with past and current issues and have an opinion that is supported with facts; Must be dynamic and change with the times but remain principled on issues;

5. Cont’d Must be active in party activities and be dependable; A functional women’s group within the party is important to provide training for potential women candidates, negotiate and lobby for women aspiring for party leadership and as party flag bearers; Identify an intelligent, respected, effective and dependable woman leader to lead the women’s group. This ensures that the views, interests and rights of women in the party are represented and defended; Develop strategies to influence party organs and persons who are key in making decisions on women’s participation at different levels in the party; Must have leadership qualities that others identify. Makes it easier for them to associate with you and support your election into leadership; Support from family is important because it makes it easier for one to concentrate on politics and offer herself for leadership;

6. Women striving for leadership positions within parties Being knowledgeable; Integrity and reliability; Develop a niche for yourself; Brand yourself; Learn and use skills that will make you thrive e.g. Negotiation, lobbying, public speaking, research Be assertive and respectable; Develop a support base