Board Chairperson for NGO Gender Coordination Network Maggie Kathewera Banda, has stated that ensuring women's participation in decision-making is not only a basic human right but also a matter of social justice. She made these remarks today during a meeting held at Capital Hotel in Lilongwe, where the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) is conducting a pre-election assessment mission in a member country preparing for its upcoming General Elections.
Before addressing the prepared questions, Maggie Kathewera Banda highlighted that NGO-GCN regards elections as a key platform for women to engage in participatory democracy—as voters, election officials, and candidates.
In her responses concerning Malawi’s readiness for the September 2025 General Elections, she stressed that her perspectives also included a focus on gender and women’s rights, aligning with NGO-GCN’s mission of promoting gender equality and women's empowerment.
Discussing political and security matters in the context of elections, NGO-GCN Chairperson expressed concerns about the safety of women participating in the electoral process. She cited instances of political violence, abuse, intimidation, harassment, and both online and offline threats targeting women in politics.
Regarding the preparedness of the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), she acknowledged the Commission's timely election calendar and its inclusive approach, especially the integration of people with disabilities. However, she raised concern over the 50%+1 electoral requirement, which might lead to a runoff election, a scenario for which MEC has not yet allocated necessary funding.
The SADC delegation will remain in Malawi until May 12, 2025, as part of its ongoing pre-election goodwill mission ahead of the General Elections scheduled for September 16, 2025.
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