By Draxon Maloya

As Malawi prepares for the September polls, the growing number of registered women voters has sparked calls for presidential candidates to prioritize appointing women as running mates.

Over 7.2 million people expected to cast votes, 56% of whom are women. As such, the demand for their greater representation in the country’s key leadership positions is gaining attraction.

In an interview, a Social-political commentator, Elias Mwangala, a graduate from Catholic University highlighted the Speaker of the National Assembly Catherine Gotani Hara as one such a potential candidate who has demonstrated leadership and charisma.

“Women have shown the vigor to hold high positions. Joyce Banda governed the country, and now Catherine Gotani Hara has demonstrated resilience,” Mwangala said.

In the Women’s Manifesto that Malawi Congress Party (MCP) President Lazarus Chakwera signed on May 13th 2019, he committed to supporting women’s empowerment.

President Chakwera also pledged to defend women’s rights and promote their active participation in the country’s socioe-conomic development.

The manifesto, facilitated by women’s movements and supported by organizations like Oxfam and UN Women, focused on key issues such as education, health, economic empowerment, and leadership.

Recently in Mzuzu City, NGO Gender Coordinating Network Chairperson Babra Banda commended commitments displayed, while Women’s Legal Resources Centre Executive Director Maggie Kathewera Banda praised his pledged support for women during the crucial electoral period.