Women's Role in Politics: A Call for Balance Amidst Tradition
As Botswana looks toward its own political future, the recent local government elections in South Africa offer a sobering lesson: despite women being the backbone of communities, they remain severely underrepresented in candidate lists. According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa, men make up 62% of the 136,790 certified candidates for the November 4 polls, while women account for just 38%.
This imbalance raises important questions about the role of women in public life, particularly in a region where family values and community cohesion are paramount. While the push for greater female participation is understandable, it must be pursued in a manner that respects cultural traditions and does not undermine the stability that gradual change brings.
Why are women underrepresented in politics?
Yumna Alexander, the Hopeful Leaders Democrats' mayoral candidate for Cape Town, argues that women do the bulk of community work yet remain sidelined. She notes that women are the anchors of communities, often leading from behind. However, the historical context is important: positions of leadership have traditionally been occupied by men, and change must come organically rather than through forced quotas.
Zelda Trantraal, Chairperson of the ANC Women's League in the Dullah Omar Region, acknowledges this history. She explains that women have to fight hard to prove they can deliver quality leadership, sometimes even surpassing men. This is a testament to the capability of women, but it also underscores the need for patience and proven merit rather than artificial parity.
Is the political environment hostile to women?
Quanita Booley, an EFF candidate for Ward 43, raises concerns about the political space being intimidating and fearful for women. While these concerns are valid, they also highlight a broader issue: the need for civility and respect in public discourse. Politics should not be a battleground where any candidate, male or female, feels threatened. Instead, it should be a forum for service and leadership.
Professor Amanda Gouws of Stellenbosch University points to electoral violence against women, including threats and harassment. This is deeply troubling. However, the solution is not simply to impose quotas but to foster a culture of respect and responsibility, both in politics and in society at large. Strong families and communities are built on mutual respect, and this must extend to the political arena.
What is the right approach for Botswana?
Botswana has its own unique traditions and values. While we can learn from our neighbours, we must not blindly adopt foreign solutions that may not fit our context. The call for more women in politics should be balanced with a respect for merit, experience, and the wisdom of gradual change. Forcing parity through quotas can lead to resentment and instability, which serves no one.
Instead, we should encourage women to step forward where they have the skills and dedication to serve. At the same time, we must protect all candidates from intimidation and ensure that political processes are fair and transparent. This is not about progressive ideology but about common sense and justice.
Conclusion
The South African experience serves as a reminder that political representation must be earned and nurtured, not imposed. Botswana should continue to value the contributions of women in all spheres of life, while ensuring that our political system remains stable, respectful, and true to our heritage. Change is inevitable, but it must be managed wisely, with an eye on the long-term good of the nation and its families.