Kathmandu, October 26 Women leaders of various political parties today said that media coverage of women leaders and issues raised by them were almost non-existent. Speaking at an interaction on print media coverage of women candidates in the recently held local level elections, they said coverage of issues raised by them could be very helpful in promoting female leadership. CPN-UML’s Kathmandu in-charge Sabitra Bhusal said, “I have been given assurance that I would be given ticket to contest the parliamentary elections. But even if I were given this chance, I would have to compete with senior male leaders. I am ready for that, but why does media only focus on popular figures?” she asked. Similarly, CPN-Maoist Centre leader Sashi Shrestha said, “Coverage of issues raised by women will not only promote female leadership, but also help change the condition of women in our society.” Thirteen national dailies from Kathmandu and six dailies from other districts were monitored for coverage of women leadership from April 4 to September 22. During the period, women leaders were only given 5.9 per cent coverage.