THE Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill is almost ready to go to the cabinet, Minister of Women, Children and People with Disabilities Lulu Xingwana said

Xingwana told the media in Parliament that work on the policy document, which would pave the way for the bill to be introduced, was at an advanced stage.

The bill is likely to list penalties for those who do not meet gender equity targets.

"South Africa has made commitments through the Constitution, various pieces of legislation and international conventions to respect, promote, protect and advance the rights of women. We have a duty and obligation to honour these commitments," she said.

Last year, the minister lamented the fact that at the time there were still 52 JSE-listed companies with not a single woman at directorship or executive management level.

"I must agree that there hasn't been much progress in the past year. This is why we have been determined to come up with the bill."

Xingwana is pushing for a 50/50 gender representation in political parties, companies, community organisations, traditional councils and all other organs of society. She said it was hoped the bill would become law early next year.

"We will therefore be able to come up with sanctions and measures that will ensure companies, organisations and political parties comply," she said.

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Thu May 23 13:07:35 SAST 2013 ::

Aug 2, 2012

Mnikazi

hha hhay hhay. . . . Women are already taking over our homes. in the few yrs man will have nothing but their pinas to claim..>>>>>>>>>

I'm joining the muslim the community.
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Aug 2, 2012

Mhambuma1

Among women's rights as entrenched in this bill is to starve their men sexually and to urinate over their heads.
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Aug 2, 2012

CB045

Wow! This is great news. Now we can share toilets with women and them with us. We cannot have toilets reserved only for men or women only. Everything must be shared equally, otherwise as the slogan goes, "injury to one, is injury to all". Viva! ANC Viva!
Later, men will also be required to cross-dress and wear a higher heeled shoe.
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