Challenges to Women’s Participation in Politics: The Case of Female Candidates in the 2024 General Election in Botswana

Abstract

Only three women won in the 61 parliamentary constituencies for the thirteenth Parliament. This paper examines gender stereotypes in digital media as one of the factors behind the gender gap in parliamentary representation. Through content analysis, the paper explores challenges faced by women candidates during the 2024 general election; a mixed methodology entailed desk-based research using documented sources, and online sources including social media. The major themes that emerged were patriarchy and stereotyping of female candidates whereby men were viewed as leaders whilst women should stay at home to look after the household. Some of the posts doubted women’s capabilities and potential for success once elected to office. Empowerment policies and initiatives were blamed for women’s alleged expectations of the reward of political office without having earned it. A minority of online posts were, however, positive; they viewed female candidates as intelligent, hardworking, accountable, and capable of running government. Women’s participation in politics is hindered by patriarchy, stereotypes, and unsupportive structures and policies. Cultural patriarchy results in the stereotyping of women candidates, such that men were viewed as leaders in public spheres and women were viewed as best suited for the private domestic sphere in society.