, Jan. 6 -- With the scrutiny of nomination papers complete, only 62 women remain in the race for the February 12 national election, exposing a stark gender gap as most of the 51 political parties failed to field a single female candidate.

A gentlemen's agreement was reached among political parties in the July National Charter 2025, calling for the nomination of at least 5 percent women of their respective aspirants in the next general election, and at least 10 percent women in the 14th national election. However, the agreement will not be incorporated into the Constitution.

A total of 27 political parties and alliances endorsed the agreement, while three parties issued notes of dissent. Despite this, most parties flagrantly ignored the...