As the campaign season progresses, stakeholders in the 50:50 women’s empowerment campaign have challenged presidential aspirants to empower their female running mates by sharing party manifestos with them.
The call comes amid concerns that some female running mates appear uncertain about their roles, with a viral video featuring one such mate sparking worries about the dilution of the 50:50 campaign’s message.
Maggie Kathewera Banda, Chairperson of the Women’s Manifesto, urged presidential candidates to have women with substance in politics to ensure the campaign’s integrity.
While commending the progress made so far, Banda expressed concern that the uncertainty displayed by some female running mates undermines the 50:50 agenda.
And on his part, George Chaima, Director of Restoration Plan Malawi, echoed Banda’s concerns, urging political parties to provide effective civic education to their running mates.
According to Banda this would ensure that they are conversant with party manifestos ahead of the September 16 general elections.
