LUSAKA - The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has criticised President Hakainde Hichilema over remarks he made about independent Mwandi parliamentary candidate Iris Kaingu, saying the comments undermine women’s political participation and leadership.
In a statement, NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe said the organisation was concerned that the President had publicly singled out a young female aspirant who was exercising her constitutional right to contest for public office.
Ms. Katebe said political campaigns should focus on policies, ideas and national development rather than personal attacks or character assassination. She added that women seeking leadership positions should be encouraged, supported and mentored instead of being ridiculed or intimidated.
According to NGOCC, the President’s remarks risk discouraging more young women from participating in politics at a time when Zambia is working to improve women’s representation in decision-making positions.
The organisation further expressed concern that the comments had allegedly contributed to increased attacks against Ms. Kaingu, including a derogatory song reportedly composed by alleged UPND supporters and public criticism from some party officials.
NGOCC condemned all forms of Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE), stating that harassment, intimidation and demeaning language create unnecessary barriers to women’s participation in democratic processes.
Ms. Katebe said such conduct undermines efforts to promote gender equality, inclusive leadership and equal political participation.
The organisation has since called on the UPND and all political parties participating in the 2026 General Election to conduct issue-based campaigns that focus on policies, ideas and practical solutions to the country’s challenges rather than personal attacks against political opponents.
Source : QFM