NGO-GCN Advocates for Women’s Electoral Advantage.

The Gender Coordination Network (NGO-GCN) is advocating for affirmative action measures to enhance women’s chances in securing key political party positions during upcoming elections.

The organization proposes a “women-only” contest format in party primaries, where female candidates would compete solely against each other.

This strategy aims to level the playing field and improve the likelihood of women attaining leadership roles within political parties.

Maggie Kathewera Banda, Chairperson of NGO-GCN, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: “With candidates now showing interest in contesting at various Conventions, it is crucial that women be given the opportunity to compete in a fair environment and secure positions traditionally dominated by men.”

Kathewera Banda highlighted upcoming party conventions, such as the MCP’s Convention on August 8th, where candidates like Catherine Gotani Hara and Abida Mia are expected to vie for the 1st Vice Presidency and Second Presidency positions, respectively.

Research indicates that fewer than 10% of women in politics seek both party and national level positions in environments that are not supportive.

This underscores the need for political parties to create a more conducive environment, ensuring safety and protection for female and young women candidates.

In addition, other activists from the Mlatho Project have emphasized the necessity of providing women with equal opportunities in politics.

Mariah Kapindula, founder and project lead, noted: “Empowering women is crucial for achieving balanced political representation and giving them a competitive edge over their male counterparts.”

In a recent letter, NGO-GCN Chairperson Kathewera Banda urged political parties to consider lowering participation fees at their upcoming conventions to facilitate greater female involvement.