Gritty women in Bahrain poll race

Manama: Despite nearly half of the eligible voters in Bahrain being women, their representation in government bodies has declined in the last few years thanks to apathy and conservative social norms.

Twelve courageous women are hoping to change this trend by contesting the parliamentary and municipal elections to be held on October 23.

So far, Lateefa Al Gaood, is the only woman confirmed to parliament and will retain the seat she won in 2006.

Muneera Fakhroo was only a few votes away from making history in 2006 to win a much-coveted seat in the Central Governorate.

She feels much better prepared this time. "My supporters range from young people to women to liberals," Muneera told Gulf News.

"My experience of 40 years in various areas has taught me that women must get actively involved in the political struggle in order to achieve their demands."

Muneera, who is writing a book on the role of women in industry, says several working women have complained of discrimination. She plans to make it an issue.

"People are now better prepared to accept women and they have the experience to deal with election campaigns," activist Esmat Al Mousawi said.

How important is participation of women in the government? How can Bahraini women overcome the decline of women representation in parliament?