How would feel if your wife was an MP or a strong business lady?

By Rev. Willy Akena

Oruu Peter, an internally displaced camp resident of Guruguru

- If we agreed together that she become an MP then, it works. But if she decides on her own then I will not accept. If she is working well, we support our family together, and in case of disagreement we can solve it amicably, says Peter Oruu, a camp resident of Guruguru in Amuru District who is also doing petty jobs in Gulu town.

What are gender issues?

* Gender refers to the socially given attributes, roles, activities and responsibilities assigned to men and women in a given culture or location. Gender roles and responsibilities are acquired and can change over time and may different from place to place.

* A gender issue refers to a grievance or injustice felt or suffered by women and girls or men and boys in a given society. It may manifest its self in any of the following:

- as a visible difference in any aspect of social or economic status between men and women in a given society.

- as different treatment given to men and women in a given society or

- as a violation of one’s rights or suffering meted by men over women or women over men.

Source: MS Uganda Policy 2002 - 2007

Komakech Robert, a bricklayer in Gulu

- My wife becoming a Member of Parliament or a business woman!! It all depends on her conduct. If we have mutual understanding and trust then it is okay, but where there is lack of trust, a lot of suspicion will developed. Especially if she sleeps outside, you can become uneasy. Thinking maybe she has got another man. In the long run, you can become violent towards her, says Komakech Robert is a builder in Gulu.

Question Corner

Below are questions from the Democracy as a way of life Debate Cards, please remember there is no right or wrong answer while debating in groups. They are meant to stimulate debate in small or big groups.

The Debate Cards - Democracy as a way of life