Roseburg reflects on killing of Peruvian journalist and political candidate Susy Aponte Polo

GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Sjamira Roseburg has expressed sadness over the killing of Peruvian journalist and political candidate Susy Aponte Polo, while highlighting the importance of ensuring that women are able to participate in politics and public life without fear of violence.

Aponte Polo, a journalist and candidate for governor of Peru’s Áncash region, was shot and killed on September 19 while participating in a campaign activity at a market in Caraz. Peruvian authorities have opened an investigation into the killing and made arrests, while the motive and full circumstances remain under investigation.

Roseburg said the killing particularly resonated with her considering ongoing discussions surrounding gender-based violence and the work being undertaken through the Women’s Caucus of the Parliament of St. Maarten.

“We have been speaking about gender-based violence, attending conferences and having discussions about how we can better protect women. Then you see something like this happen to a woman who was using her voice and seeking political office. It is deeply saddening,” Roseburg said.

The Women’s Caucus currently comprises Roseburg and fellow MPs Sarah Wescot-Williams, Veronica Jansen-Webster and Ludmila de Weever. Parliament’s annual report notes that the caucus has been engaged in regional discussions on issues affecting women, including technology-facilitated gender-based violence.

Roseburg said incidents such as the killing of Aponte Polo should reinforce the importance of creating an environment in which women can participate fully in political and public life without having to fear for their safety.

“Every woman should be able to seek political office, stand for what she believes in, speak out against wrongdoing and corruption, and contribute to her country without fearing that her voice could cost her life,” Roseburg said.

Aponte Polo was also known for her work as a journalist and communicator. Peru’s Ombudsman’s Office confirmed that she was a candidate for the regional governorship of Áncash and publicly expressed concern over her killing, calling for measures to protect candidates participating in the country’s electoral process.

Reports from Peru also indicate that Aponte Polo had publicly spoken about threats against her before she was killed. Authorities have continued investigating the circumstances of the attack and possible responsibility beyond the alleged gunman.

Roseburg stressed that those investigations must be allowed to establish why Aponte Polo was targeted and who was responsible. She said it would be wrong to draw conclusions about the motive before the Peruvian authorities complete their work.

“The circumstances and motive surrounding her killing remain a matter for the Peruvian authorities to investigate, but when a woman who chooses to step forward and serve her community is silenced in this way, it should concern all of us,” Roseburg said.

“We have to continue creating societies where women know that they can step forward, speak up and lead safely,” she added.

Roseburg said women entering politics and other areas of public life already face challenges that can discourage participation, and violence or threats should never become accepted as part of choosing to serve.

She said continuing the discussion on protecting women in leadership should therefore remain part of the wider work on gender-based violence, both locally and through St. Maarten’s participation in regional parliamentary forums.

Roseburg extended condolences to Aponte Polo’s family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.

“May her family find strength during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in power, Susy Aponte Polo.”