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By Cindy Mulomba

Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council -NGOCC Chairperson BEAUTY KATEBE has urged political parties to give women equal opportunities when selecting candidates ahead of the 2026 general election.

Ms. KATEBE says political parties should allocate 50–50 contestable positions to women and men.

She has also called on parties to adopt female candidates in constituencies where they have a strong chance of winning.

Ms. KATEBE says there is also need to address electoral violence, which discourages many women from participating in elections both as candidates and voters.

She further says individuals convicted of defilement and rape should not be considered for presidential pardons.

Ms. KATEBE was speaking during International Women's Day commemorations held in Lusaka under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.”

Meanwhile, United Nations Resident Coordinator BEATRICE MUTALI said it is important to ensure that women have equal opportunities as Zambia prepares for the 2026 general election.

Ms. MUTALI said rights without enforcement remain only promises.

And Lusaka Province Minister SHEAL MULYATA said President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has advanced women’s rights by appointing them to key positions in Government.