Institute Against Discrimination condemns verbal sexual assault on MP Fernandes by MPs Persaud and McKoy

The National Assembly was charged with a volley of verbal sexual assault on female Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Juretha Fernandes by Government Members of Parliament Anand Persaud and Kwame McCoy.  In a continued disregard for good parliamentary conduct the male MPs reportedly called the female MP ‘whore,’ ‘stripper,’ and ‘stink woman.’

The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) , in a statement, said it unequivocally condemns the alleged sexist and derogatory remarks, and has called on Speaker Manzoor Nadir to take charge of the House. IFAAD said it is important for the Speaker to uphold impartiality and exhibit zero tolerance to such behaviour and take decisive action to safeguard the rights and protections of women MPs.

See Institute for Action Against Discrimination’s full statement below:-

The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) unequivocally condemns the alleged sexist and derogatory remarks made against the Honourable Member of Parliament Ms Juretha Fernandes by ministers of the PPP government, Mr. Kwame McCoy and Mr. Anand Persaud.

The reported language used – including terms such as ‘whore,’ ‘stripper,’ and ‘stink woman’ – is not only degrading and offensive but also a gross violation of the dignity that is due to all individuals, especially to those in public service. Such language perpetuates discrimination and is utterly unacceptable in any context, particularly within the esteemed chambers of government where respect and integrity should preside.

The IFAAD stands with Ms. Fernandes and all women who have been subjected to such vicious treatment based purely on their gender. We firmly uphold the principle that all Members of Parliament should be free to carry out their duties without fear of gender-based discrimination or insult.

As such, we are calling upon the Speaker of the National Assembly to uphold impartiality and exhibit zero tolerance to such behaviour. It is imperative that the speaker takes decisive action to safeguard the rights and protections of women members of parliament. Failure to address this issue with the seriousness it deserves not only fails Ms. Fernandes also sets a troubling precedent for the treatment of women in politics and beyond.

We further urge the leadership of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP)and all political entities to denounce any form of discrimination and to take concrete steps to educate their members on gender sensitivity and respect. Let this moment be a turning point, prompting all political parties and their representatives to recommit to a culture of mutual respect and equality.

At no point should political affiliation serve as a veil for sexism or as an excuse for the abuse of women. It is a mark of shame when individuals within positions of power exhibit such contempt for women, and it is a stain on democratic ideals we all share when the institutions meant to protect and uplift the community become arenas for degradation.

Together, let us all say no to discrimination and unite for a future where respect for all, regardless of gender, is the norm in our political discourse and society at large.