WEAK FINANCIAL MUSCLE CASTS WOMEN OUT OF ACTIVE POLITICS

By Aamon Butao and  Vyalema Kaluluma Phiri 

Lack of financial support has been pointed out as a major challenge affecting women participation in the forthcoming by-elections in March. 

In an interview with Gender activist, Emma Kaliya decried lack of commitment from nongovernmental organizations.  

“NGOs need to wake up and help women in by-elections and not only in general elections,” said Kaliya.

Kaliya has also urged political parties to make sure that women are given chance to contest in areas where by elections are taking place.

In his remarks, UTM spokesperson Frank Mwenefumbo said any woman that will show interest to contest from the part will be fully supported.

“UTM believes in giving chance to women,”  said Mwenefumbo. 

Meanwhile, the Democratic Progressive Party and United Democratic Front, say they aim a clean sweep of all seats during the 30 March by-elections.

The Malawi Electoral Commission is scheduled to hold the elections in 7 constituencies and 2 wards. 

Among the contested constituencies are the court-sanctioned polls in Nsanje-Central, Nsanje-North and Chikwawa-East.