BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The NGO Gender Coordination Network (GCN) has lamented the lack of women contesting for the highest political office in Malawi, citing a lack of political will and entrenched cultural norms as major obstacles.
According to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) records, only one female candidate, Joyce Banda of the People’s Party has declared her intention to run in the September 16 elections.
GCN Chairperson Maggie Kathewera Banda expressed concern that in 2025, women are still not being trusted to lead the country, describing this mindset as “retrogressive.”
Banda urged political parties to change their mindset if Malawi is to have a female president.
“It’s high time political parties recognized the potential of women in leadership,” she emphasized.
The GCN has been actively working to promote women’s participation in politics.
Recently, the organization partnered with UN Women to train aspiring women candidates on how to navigate the electoral process.
The training emphasized the importance of adhering to electoral laws and regulations.
With over 7.2 million people expected to cast votes in the September 16 General Election, 56% of whom are women, there is a growing demand for greater representation of women in key leadership positions.
Some have even suggested that presidential candidates should prioritize appointing women as running mates to tap into this demographic.
Potential female leaders, such as Catherine Gotani Hara, the Speaker of the National Assembly, have demonstrated leadership and charisma, sparking discussions about their potential candidacy.
President Lazarus Chakwera has also pledged support for women’s empowerment and rights, signing the Women’s Manifesto in 2019.
The road ahead for women in Malawian politics is fraught with challenges, but with continued support and advocacy, there is hope for a more inclusive and representative government.
