Minister Kiran urges more women to enter politics despite challenges
Social media criticism remains a barrier for women entering politics.
Tuesday 04 August 2026 | 12:00
From left: Moderator Serafina Silaitoga, Fijian Media Association president and Fiji Sun editor in chief and publisher Rosi Doviverata, former Minister for Women, Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation Adi Asenaca Caucau, Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar and Speaker to Parliament Filimone Jitoko at the launch of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarian (CWP) Fiji Group Booklet in Suva on August 3, 2026.
Photo: Asenaca Ratu
Changing public perceptions about women in leadership is critical to increasing female representation in Parliament, says Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran.
Her comments follow Opposition MP Premila Kumar's remarks that one of the biggest challenges facing women elected to Parliament was being overlooked for influential positions.
Ms Kiran said outdated beliefs and stereotypes about women in leadership needed to be challenged, adding that greater media coverage of women in leadership roles was helping change those perceptions.
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"Sometimes there are doubts and perceptions, so it is important for us. We're grateful the media has been highlighting women's roles in all spheres, whether it's STEM, engineering, aviation or farming. We need much more visibility for our women in those spaces," she said.
"I think we need to question ourselves and our mindsets. When something like that happens, we need to ask ourselves, 'Is it true?' because our women are very capable."
Ms Kiran said women who had served in politics had demonstrated they could withstand the pressures of public office and lead effectively.
"There's really a lot to learn from them. Politics is a very demanding job for many women, and some find it intimidating. We keep encouraging women to join political parties and become involved.
"These days social media can be difficult and it's easy for people to criticise. That does make it harder for women, but we have strong women leaders. We encourage those who know they can influence change to come forward and help shape legislation that better protects all people in Fiji."
Ms Kiran said the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Fiji Group had partnered with the Fiji Media Association and Women in Media to raise the visibility of women in leadership and public life.
She will join other panellists at the Speaker's Debate on Thursday evening at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, where discussions will focus on increasing the representation of women in Parliament.
