In a powerful show of solidarity, women leaders from various political parties and organizations united to address the critical issue of Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE).
The solidarity press briefing was held today at the Golden Peacock in Lilongwe.
The briefing, organized by Oxfam and the Women’s Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC) under the Women’s Manifesto Movement, brought together key stakeholders, including the Non-Governmental Organisation Gender Coordinating Network (NGO-GCN), the African Women Leadership Network, and cross-party Directorates of Women.
Minister of Gender Jean Sendeza, also serving as the Director of Women for the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), stressed the need for unity among women in politics.
“We at MCP are against the act of violence against women in politics. Every woman has a right to be respected, regardless of the party she represents. Let us all hold hands to end violence that women face, especially during campaign seasons,” Sendeza said.
Sendeza also highlighted the ministry’s ongoing programs aimed at protecting women’s rights and combating violence against women during elections.
Emma Kaliya, Chairperson of the African Women’s Movement, called for introspection among women leaders, urging them to avoid perpetuating hatred.
“I have seen you hugging and embracing each other here in public; I hope it will not be a different story out there. We must change this culture of hate among ourselves,” Kaliya emphasized. She also recalled the 2008 women’s march and expressed hope for a new era of unity.
NGO-GCN Chairperson Maggie Kathewera Banda highlighted the alarming rise in violence against women in Malawi, particularly within the political arena.
“This violence discourages aspiring women candidates and demonstrates that protection is lacking. We need communities, law enforcement, and organizations to work together to address this pressing issue,” Kathewera Banda said.
Directors of Women from all major political parties in Malawi, including MCP, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the United Transformation Movement (UTM), the United Democratic Front (UDF), the People’s Party (PP), the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), and the People’s Development Party (PDP), were present. Together, they reaffirmed their commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive political environment for women.
The event concluded with a unified call to action: violence against women in politics must end.
This historic display of unity sends a strong message to the nation and reinforces the importance of collaboration to address gender-based violence in all forms.
