The Gender Links study points to significant democratic erosion in Botswana, particularly regarding women’s political participation. The report indicates that only three out of 28 women were elected to the National Assembly, resulting in an 8.7% representation— the lowest in the SADC region. Although cabinet representation has slightly improved, the overall landscape remains concerning, with only 4% of media coverage featuring women.
A recent study by Gender Links has revealed that Botswana is experiencing significant democratic erosion, particularly in terms of women’s participation in politics. Despite its reputation as a stable democracy in Sub-Saharan Africa, the report indicates a troubling decline in women’s political representation, questioning the true meaning of democracy. Following the recent elections, only three out of twenty-eight women who contended for National Assembly seats were successful, lowering the representation of women in parliament to a mere 8.7%, the lowest ranking among the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries.
The study reveals that while women’s representation at the local level has decreased continuously to a current level of 15%, there has been a slight increase in female cabinet representation, from 17% to 22%. This rise offers a potential positive trend, alongside indications of the new government’s commitment to reversing the current declines in women’s political influence. However, overall, the 2024 elections showcased more losses than gains for women’s representation.
The Gender Links audit covered a 15-year period, noting fluctuations, with representation improving to over 10% during the 2019-2024 period, albeit remaining lower than that of Specially Elected Members of Parliament (MPs). The report further notes an unusual moment for Botswana, marking the first occurrence of having only one female assistant minister, indicating an unprecedented low in representation in local governance.
Gender Links’ Women’s Political Participation manager, Mabetha Manteboheleng, underscored the importance of recognizing these challenges, stating that the outcome is a stark reminder of the journey ahead in achieving gender equality. Notably, the report observed that media representation of women was exceedingly low, with women accounting for just 4% of news sources during election coverage, highlighting the ongoing struggle for inclusivity in the political arena.
Efforts to enhance women’s political participation included training academies for over 100 women politicians from different political formations. Although an increased number of women contested the elections compared to previous years, this did not result in a corresponding increase in parliamentary seats.
In conclusion, Gender Links’ recent audit highlights a significant decline in women’s representation in Botswana’s political landscape, emphasizing an urgent need for reform and greater inclusivity. While there are minor improvements, such as the increase of women in cabinet positions, the overall situation reflects a concerning trend for gender equality. Addressing media representation and ensuring more substantial support for women in politics emerges as crucial steps towards reversing democratic erosion in Botswana.
Original Source: allafrica.com
