Under the leadership of Peter Mutharika, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has come under fire for its treatment of women, sparking outrage among gender activists. The recent decision to replace Mary Navicha with George Chaponda as the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament has been met with disappointment and criticism.
Maggie Kathewera Banda, Chairperson of the NGO-Gender Coordination Network, has condemned the move, stating that it reflects a lack of trust in female leadership and undermines the party’s credibility in championing gender equality initiatives like the 50-50 campaign.
Beatrice Mateyu and Carol Mvalo, among other activists, have echoed these concerns, highlighting Navicha’s proven competence during her tenure. However, DPP Spokesperson Shadrick Namalomba has defended the decision, asserting that the party values women and citing its higher representation of female MPs in the National Assembly.
