IN Zimbabwe, as the August elections approach, the lack of women candidates and persisting gender bias in politics is drawing attention and concern. At a recent rally, women enthusiastically pledged to vote for change, but the reality remains that women are largely confined to supporting roles in politics.
Despite women constituting the majority of the population and historically being the largest number of voters, the number of women candidates has significantly dropped, putting Zimbabwe at odds with positive trends on the continent. In sub-Saharan Africa, the percentage of women in national parliaments increased from 10 percent in 1995 to around 27 percent in 2022, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union.
Gender-based biases remain rampant in Zimbabwe, a patriarchal southern African nation. Men have traditionally dominated political, economic, religious, and social spheres, making it challenging for women to gain meaningful representation in decision-making processes.
The 2018 elections showed a record
number of female candidates for the presidency, but this year, no women qualified as presidential candidates. For the National Assembly, women represent only 11 percent of candidates, down from 14 percent in 2018.
High registration fees pose an additional obstacle for women. The registration fee for parliamentary candidates increased significantly, making it difficult for many women to participate. Pressure groups expressed disappointment after political parties pledged to increase women’s representation but fielded fewer than 12 percent women candidates for the National Assembly.
Women who do run for public office face derogatory stereotypes and discriminatory comments from opponents, undermining their qualifications and track records. The prevailing attitudes towards women’s roles in politics continue to hinder progress towards gender equality.
Despite the fact that women have demonstrated effective leadership during multiple crises in Zimbabwe, including the HIV/AIDS pandemic and the economic meltdown, their ambitions in national politics are often met with scepticism.
Civil soci
ety organizations like the Women’s Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence (WALPE) are advocating for increased women’s representation and encouraging women voters to elect fellow women where they appear on the ballot.
As Zimbabwe prepares for the elections, the lack of women candidates and gender bias in politics remain pressing challenges that need to be addressed to achieve greater gender equality and women’s meaningful participation in decision-making.
(with AP)
