Only five women have expressed interest to contest for parliamentary and local government election in Chitipa District, drawing mixed reactions from gender activists.
Chitipa district elections officer Francis Mgala in an interview on Wednesday said 56 aspirants have shown interest to contest for local government while 15 will vie for parliamentary seats.
nomination papers. I Aliko Munde
“Of the 56 aspirants, 48 are men, four are women and four are youths. Among the parliamentary aspirants, 14 are men and one is a woman,” he said.
Mgala said the numbers are expected to increase before the nomination form collection deadline on July 30.
In reaction, Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) of Karonga gender coordinator Janet Mhango said the figures reflect a long road to achieve gender parity in political positions.
“The numbers are a mixed bag. We still have a long way to go, especially in higher positions such as member of Parliament but seeing four women aspiring for councillor positions is encouraging because it shows that women are gaining confidence and starting to see themselves as leaders,” she said.
Mhango said CCJP will support female aspirants through community mobilisation and using platforms such as Tuntufye Community Radio to garner their support.
On youth participation, YouthNet and Counselling Organisation Chitipa district manager Dunreck Pande expressed concern over the low numbers.
“A good number of youths feel contented with adults leading while others believe political parties favour older candidates,” he said.
Malawians are going to the polls on September 16 2025 to elect President, parliamentarians and ward councillors
Mgala: More expected to collect nomination papers. I Aliko Munde
