“There’s no [gender] discrimination in being a leader. He or she only needs to be able to lead and do service [to the country]. So, both men and women are all included. In Myanmar, people accept it when men become leaders. They only need equality and capability. Women will be accepted if they are really capable,” he said.

According to him, women from rural areas lack interest in politics. But there are many qualified women so women should be given leadership positions in every place, he said.
He made the remarks as traditional ethnic customs still prevent women from obtaining a role in politics.

Naw Ar Mu Htoo, from the from the Molo community said she accepts that women can become leader since there are now many qualified women in Myanmar.

“There’s no reason not to accept women as leaders because if you look at the women in the current situation, there are many qualified women in this country. I accept that women can also become president,” said Naw Ar Mu Htoo.

Ma Ni Mal from Tanilarle village in Dawkalawdu village tract in Demoso Township also said she believes women are suitable to become the country’s leader if they have the qualifications.
She urged the winning parties in the upcoming election to uplift the lives and capabilities of women.
Among 213 candidates running in Karenni State’s election, only 23 candidates are women.

Translated by Thida Linn with editing by BNI staff.