NGOCC Slams Misogyny

Mbewe-Anamela Warns of rising attacks on women leaders

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24, --- (March 20, 2026) — The (NGOCC) has slammed what it describes as rising misogyny targeting women leaders, warning that such attacks threaten democratic values and undermine women’s participation in governance.

NGOCC Executive Director Anne Mbewe-Anamela told Zambia24 that the organisation is deeply concerned by repeated disparaging remarks directed at female leaders, citing recent public commentary by Mwewa Chitambala as an example of the trend.

The organisation said the remarks reflect a pattern of questioning women’s competence based on gender stereotypes rather than merit, describing the rhetoric as “regressive” and harmful to national development.

“We firmly believe that the progress of our great nation depends on the full and respectful involvement of all Zambian citizens,” NGOCC stated.

 “When women in positions of responsibility are subjected to demeaning commentary about their temperament, appearance, or marital status, it is not just the individual women being attacked, but the very principles of equality and mutual respect.”

NGOCC warned that continued disparaging statements against women risk undermining democratic values and eroding gains made in promoting gender equality. 

The organisation urged Mr. Chitambala to exercise restraint and use his platform to promote unity and dignity.

“It is our hope that he will demonstrate a higher sense of responsibility and adopt a more principled, issue-based approach in his public discourse,” the statement read.

The council further cautioned that Zambia is approaching a critical phase in its electoral cycle, where negative narratives about women could have lasting consequences on representation. 

It noted that such rhetoric has historically contributed to the underrepresentation of women in leadership and continues to discourage their participation in governance.

NGOCC called on citizens and stakeholders to actively reject gender-based scrutiny and instead evaluate leaders based on competence, integrity, and performance. It also urged the public to identify and challenge individuals who use their platforms to demean women.

While acknowledging the importance of freedom of expression in a democratic society, the organisation emphasised that such freedoms should not be used to promote harmful or discriminatory attitudes.

The council concluded by highlighting the historical and ongoing contributions of women to Zambia’s development, noting that women have consistently earned their positions through merit and sacrifice.

“We must all be deliberate in choosing a path of respect, substance, and equality,” NGOCC said.