Aspirants bemoan Political Parties favouritism

Women, Youth and people with disabilities who are aspiring for various political seats in Machinga have expressed worry over increased favoritism in political parties.

This was revealed in Liwonde during an engagement meeting organised by Women Legal Resources Centre (Wolrec) in partnership with Oxfam, under Promoting Gender Transformative and Youth Inclusive Democracy project, where the organizations engaged 32 aspirants from various political parties in the country.

Speaking during the meeting, aspiring Member of Parliament for Machinga Likwenu Constituency for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Jayne Mandeule, pointed out that political parties often support their preferred candidates, making it difficult for other contenders to receive equal treatment.

She said youth, especially girls, face harsh criticism from their opponents when they see that they might defeat them adding they resort to calling them names to undermine their campaigns.

Mandeule also highlighted the lack of resources available for running effective campaigns in their constituencies or wards, noting that the culture of handouts has significantly influenced people’s mindsets.

On behalf of persons with disabilities contesting in various seats in the district, aspiring Councilor for Chikweo Ward, Umali Sungani highlighted prejudice as a major setback to their dreams.

He noted that many qualified candidates with disabilities often struggle to receive the same level of support and recognition as their counterparts.

Meanwhile, Wolrec executive director Maggie Kathewera Banda said the two organisations are among other NGOs engaging political parties and promoting a fair and inclusive environment where all candidates can contest without elements of bias.

The project is being implemented with financial support from European Union (EU) and Oxfam Ireland.