Esther Utjiua Muinjangue has expressed her confidence in Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s president-elect, who will be the first female president. She noted the historical significance of this leadership change, emphasized the ongoing challenges women face in politics, and reinforced the need for societal support for female leaders. Muinjangue’s own experiences underline the importance of progress in gender equality within the political arena.
Esther Utjiua Muinjangue, a former Deputy Minister and a pioneer as the first woman to lead a political party in Namibia, has expressed her confidence in president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Muinjangue believes that Nandi-Ndaitwah’s track record in leadership demonstrates her capabilities. “I have full confidence in the abilities of the president-elect. I trust her,” she stated, highlighting Nandi-Ndaitwah’s imminent historical role as Namibia’s first female president, set against the backdrop of Independence Day celebrations.
The election of Nandi-Ndaitwah has generated significant optimism among women in various spheres. While Muinjangue did not draw direct parallels between her leadership experience and that of a Head of State, she acknowledged ongoing obstacles for women in leadership roles in Namibia. “It is widely agreed that women are just as deserving as men when it comes to leadership, but challenges remain in Namibia’s patriarchal society,” she remarked. Muinjangue, however, is enthusiastic about Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership potential.
Muinjangue emphasized the importance of supporting Nandi-Ndaitwah, indicating that public backing is essential for her success. “The president-elect is a seasoned politician. She has vast experience and is more than capable of leading this country. What we need to do now is to give her the necessary support and assure her that the Namibian people stand behind her,” she asserted. Muinjangue also conveyed her excitement regarding this pivotal moment in Namibian history.
A prominent advocate for democracy, gender equality, and socio-economic development, Muinjangue made history in 2019 by winning the National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) presidential election. Reflecting on her experiences as a female leader, she described the scrutiny and challenges she faced compared to her male colleagues. “I was judged more harshly than my male colleagues, and my leadership abilities were constantly questioned,” she noted.
She also recognized the unique aspects of her experiences compared to Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership journey, particularly concerning party dynamics and gender representation. “From an ecological systems’ perspective, leadership is about how an individual fits within their environment, and the level of support they receive,” she explained. While Muinjangue was a trailblazer in a male-dominated space, she acknowledged Swapo’s progressive approach towards gender equality.
Despite the contrasts in their journeys, Muinjangue maintains that this historic event could motivate more women to seek leadership positions. She remains hopeful for continued societal transformation to remove barriers that inhibit women’s advancement.
In summary, Esther Utjiua Muinjangue articulated her confidence in president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is poised to become Namibia’s first female president. Muinjangue reflected on both the challenges and progress in gender equality within Namibian politics, highlighting the significance of providing support to female leaders. As Namibia prepares to welcome Nandi-Ndaitwah into leadership, there is a collective hope that her presidency will inspire women across the nation to pursue their aspirations unabated.
Original Source: allafrica.com
