Every year on September 15, the world observes the International Day of Democracy, a reminder that democracy thrives when all voices are heard and citizens are empowered to participate. Today, I join the global community in celebrating this day, which also serves as a call to action for the government of Zimbabwe and others in the region to strengthen women’s representation in leadership, politics, and governance, ensuring that democracy is truly inclusive.
I celebrate the strides that have been made by our government in promoting gender equality, which include the introduction of the 60-seat quota in the House of Assembly for women. This move marked a significant step toward rectifying historical gender imbalances in political representation. Despite these efforts, challenges persist. The introduction of the youth quota is also applauded, as it advances youth participation in politics. As of the 2023 elections, women held approximately 35% of seats in parliament, 16% in local government, and 11.5% in cabinet positions. While these figures indicate progress, they also highlight the ongoing underrepresentation of women in key decision-making roles.
On this day, it is crucial to therefore remind our leaders of how, when the core principles of democracy, such as inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, are weakened plus ignored, marginalized groups are systematically excluded, denied leadership opportunities, and stripped of the ability to influence policies that shape their lives. Democracy, therefore, is far more than periodic elections, it is NOT an event! It is about creating a political and social environment where every citizen, irrespective of age or gender, has a real and empowered voice in shaping the future of their nation. Without this, the promise of equal opportunity and justice remains hollow, and the potential of women and youth to drive progress is left unrealized.
In this beautiful country, the erosion of democratic freedoms has manifested in alarming ways. Arbitrary arrests and the suppression of freedom of expression have become tools to stifle dissent. For instance, the arbitrary arrests of activists, political party members, and civil society members, who include women, in August 2024, remain disturbing. The suppression of freedom of expression is equally concerning, more so with the enactment of the Patriot Act in 2023, which introduced severe penalties for those convicted of "willfully injuring the sovereignty and national interest of Zimbabwe."
This contrasts with the principles of democracy, where freedoms of expression, assembly, and participation are fundamental. The current climate in Zimbabwe reflects a departure from these ideals, creating an environment that leaves many citizens, particularly women and youths, marginalized and voiceless. On this International Day of Democracy, I humbly call for government and all leaders to move beyond rhetoric and ensure that democracy is a lived reality where women and youth are not just counted, but empowered to shape policies, lead communities, and drive the world toward a future of equality, justice, and shared prosperity
I matter! Women matter! Youths matter! Democracy matters!
- Machimbirike is a Project Officer for the S(HE) Matters project, Hivos Southern Africa
