A senior Zambian government official has reported that some political parties are asking aspiring female candidates for sexual favours in exchange for selection ahead of the upcoming August elections. Mainga Kabika, the head of the gender office in the presidency, made this statement, urging women to document such incidents.
Addressing a conference of state prosecutors, Kabika confirmed receiving multiple reports from women detailing that they were being solicited for sexual favours in exchange for their political nominations. This situation is very troubling as it discourages many women from participating in politics, particularly as candidates, stated Beauty Katebe, chair of the Non-Governmental Gender Organisations Coordinating Council.
Katebe highlighted the extensive cultural biases and stigmas that prevent women from reporting such incidents, which she termed 'sextortion.' She advocated for faster judicial processes to address these allegations and emphasized that stronger laws are necessary to deter sexual harassment in political environments.
Zambia has historically struggled with gender representation in politics, with women constituting only about 15% of parliamentarians. Despite some recent high-profile appointments, deep-rooted cultural and structural barriers continue to hinder women's political participation.
As the nation prepares for elections on August 13, the call for systemic change and protection for women in politics is more critical than ever.
