Malawi Women Leaders Unite to Combat Election Violence Against Females
Leaders from major political parties and civil society organisations called on law enforcement and government officials to implement existing protections for women in politics.
LILONGWE, Malawi -- Women political leaders across party lines in Malawi joined forces Wednesday to demand stronger action against election-related violence targeting female candidates and voters, writes Meclina Chirwa.
During a press briefing in Lilongwe, leaders from major political parties and civil society organisations called on law enforcement and government officials to implement existing protections for women in politics.
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Women's Director Mary Navicha urged Police Inspector General Maryn Yolamu to take decisive action.
"I am requesting the Inspector General of Police to ensure that law enforcers apprehend and prosecute the culprits of violence against women in elections," Navicha said.
Jean Sendeza, who serves as both Gender Minister and Women's Director for the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP), emphasised the need for safe political participation.
"We want to see women participating in political affairs of their parties without fear," she said, noting existing protections under the gender equality act.
Parliament's Second Deputy Speaker, Aisha Mambo Adams, who is also UDF Director of Women, called for implementing established safeguards.
"Government should implement the Political Empowerment of Women strategy, which among other things provides for mechanisms for preventing violence against women in elections," Adams said.
NGO-GCN Chairperson Maggie Kathewera Banda urged stronger enforcement of existing legislation.
"As CSOs, we recommend that the government should ensure the effective implementation of the Malawi Gender Equality Act, which outlaws all forms of discrimination against women, including that which takes place in politics," she said.
Banda also called on party leaders to denounce violence regardless of political affiliation and requested the Malawi Human Rights Commission monitor policies promoting gender equality.
The cross-party initiative represents a rare show of unity among Malawi's political factions, with women leaders setting aside party differences to address shared concerns about electoral violence.